Leroy Jeffrey Rivers, lovingly known as “Butch,” was born on June 5, 1955, in Varnville, South Carolina, to Kitty and Leroy Rivers.
At 15, Butch joined Samaritan Baptist Church where he sang in the Young Adult Choir and served as a Trustee. He was a proud graduate of Wade Hampton High School and a member of its marching band.
Quiet and reserved, Butch enjoyed the company of others and had a special way of making his presence known. Dancing bought him great joy throughout his life. He began dancing as a young boy, competed in contests, and once won the grand prize. He also loved sports, especially basketball, football, and wrestling.
Butch leaves to cherish his memory: his children: Cedric Thompson of Varnville, South Carolina; Fran Thompson Smith (Steve) of Tallahassee, Fla; and Natalie Thompson Phoenix of Early Branch, South Carolina; and his grandchildren: Tayler Smith, Datrevian Phoenix, Briahna Joyner, Jordan Smith, and Karsyn Smith. He is also survived by two sisters: Virginia Gadson of Ridgeland, South Carolina and Kathy Rivers of Greenville, South Carolina; two brothers: Jimmy Rivers (Janie) of Hampton, South Carolina and Leron Young (Cristal) of Forestville, MD; a sister-in-law: Rebecca Walker of Savannah, GA, and one aunt: Betty James of Dix Hills, NY, along with other relatives and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his beloved granddaughter, Keandra Davis, and his brother, Wilbur Walker. Their memories will remain forever in the hearts of the family.
Butch will be remembered for his quiet presence, familiar smile, love of sports, and, above all, the joy he found in dancing. The music is still playing in the memories he leaves behind, and we can imagine him still finding his rhythm,
Rest peacefully, Butch. Your dancing days are not forgotten, your place in our hearts will never be empty, and your memory will forever keep time with the music of our lives.
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