SR0690 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0690 LRB104 21170 RMO 35575 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois Senate are saddened to learn of the death of Butler McGee Jr. of Chicago, who passed away on March 2, 2026; and

WHEREAS, Butler McGee, the son of Butler and Annie (Cozark) McGee Sr., was born in Hayti, Missouri on February 20, 1937; he married Odessa Kirkendall; and

WHEREAS, After moving to Chicago in 1955, Butler McGee worked as a taxi driver for nearly 25 years and later became an entrepreneur; and

WHEREAS, Butler McGee loved spending time with his family, visiting the racetrack and casinos, and playing card games, and he enjoyed watching basketball games and westerns on television; he maintained a neat and well-groomed appearance throughout his life, receiving help from his grandson when his health began to change; and

WHEREAS, Butler McGee had a loving nature and was unafraid to defend what he valued; his strength, resilience, and integrity were an inspiration to those who loved him; and

WHEREAS, Butler McGee was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Bertha, Clara, Elijah Sr., General, Leonard, Nathaniel, and Roosevelt; his daughter, Paulette; and his son-in-law, Matthew Jr.; and

WHEREAS, Butler McGee is survived by his daughters, Lillie and Sharry; his son, Reginald (Beverly); his bonus daughter, Arvetta (Greg); eight grandsons; five granddaughters; 22 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; three close friends, Rose, Lonnie, and Linda; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of Butler McGee Jr. 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 Butler McGee as an expression of our deepest sympathy.