HR0189 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0189 LRB104 12736 ECR 23767 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives are saddened to learn of the death of Jerry "Iceman" Butler, a towering figure in American music, a trailblazing public servant, and a cherished son of Illinois, who passed away on February 20, 2025; and

WHEREAS, Born to sharecropper parents in Mississippi, Jerry Butler's journey was one of perseverance, talent, and profound impact; at the age of three, his family sought greater opportunity in Chicago, where he attended James A. Sexton School and later studied at Washburne Trade School, preparing for a career as a chef before his extraordinary musical gifts set him on a different path; and

WHEREAS, Jerry Butler's rich, soulful, and unmistakable voice became the soundtrack of a generation; as a founding member of The Impressions, he performed globally with the group, pioneering the Chicago Soul sound that blended gospel roots with R&B; his contributions were recognized with his induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1991; and

WHEREAS, Jerry Butler's solo career saw unparalleled success with chart-topping hits, such as "For Your Precious Love", "Only the Strong Survive", and "Never Gonna Give You Up"; as a three-time Grammy Award nominee, his music has been sampled and revered by many modern artists, including Missy Elliott, Snoop Dogg, Method Man, and The Game, proving his lasting influence across generations; and

WHEREAS, Beyond the stage, Jerry Butler was a man of service, leadership, and commitment to his community; he served as a Cook County Commissioner representing the 3rd District, which included parts of Chicago's South Side, from 1985 to 2018; with the backing of Chicago Mayor Harold Washington, he embarked on a remarkable 32-year political career, where he chaired the Health and Hospitals Committee and worked tirelessly to expand access to health care for underserved communities; and

WHEREAS, During his time in public service, Jerry Butler found his true passion of ensuring health care for all, and one of his most notable achievements was playing a key role in the opening of John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital, a critical healthcare institution serving Cook County residents regardless of their ability to pay; and

WHEREAS, Dedicated to the well-being of fellow artists, Jerry Butler chaired the Rhythm and Blues Foundation, pushing for retirement and medical benefits for musicians who had given their lives to the industry but often lacked financial security in their later years; and

WHEREAS, Never one to stop learning, Jerry Butler earned his master's degree in public administration from Governors State University while continuing his work as a public servant, a testament to his commitment to education, progress, and the betterment of his community; and

WHEREAS, Jerry Butler's life was enriched by the unwavering love and partnership of his wife, Annette Butler, who he was married to for over six decades until her passing; and

WHEREAS, Jerry Butler leaves behind a legacy carried forward by his sons, Anthony and Randy, his four grandchildren, his great-grandchild, and an entire city and music industry forever shaped by his talent, vision, and dedication to justice and progress; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of Jerry "Iceman" Butler, a musical pioneer, a public servant, and an icon of Illinois, and extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Jerry Butler as an expression of our deepest sympathy.