JAMES T. BUTTERFIELD

James T. Butterfield, age 69, beloved father of Brian, Kathleen and Michael Butterfield; former spouse of Christina (nee Poe) Butterfield; son of the late Michael and Anna Rita Butterfield; brother of Margaret (William) Hayes, and the late Michael J. Butterfield; brother-in-law of Penny Seko; uncle, great uncle and great friend of many; passed away peacefully on May 16, 2026 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Jim was a musician with several Cleveland-based bands, most recently with Butterfield 8. He was founder and president of Banana Records and Mab Zab Music. In addition to recording his own songs, he helped guide the careers of the artists signed to his record label, and appeared as a guest musician on many other projects.

A proud graduate of St. Edward High School ‘75 and the University of Dayton ‘79, Jim worked as an engineer in New York, Cocoa Beach, Atlanta and Chicago before returning home to his native Cleveland where he could attend the games of his favorite teams — the Indians, Browns and Cavs.

Jim will be remembered as the host of memorable parties, a tremendous musical talent, for his wry sense of humor, and a strong devotion to his family, friends and Catholic faith. 

Funeral Mass Tuesday, May 19. Our Lady of Angels Church (3644 Rocky River Dr.) at 11:00 AM. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery. Friends may call at CHAMBERS FUNERAL HOME of CLEVELAND, 4420 ROCKY RIVER DR. AT PURITAS MONDAY 4-7 PM. In lieu of flowers contributions to St. Edward High School Endowment Fund, 13500 Detroit Ave. Lakewood, OH 44107 would be appreciated.