Philip Butterfield

RAYMOND – Philip Butterfield was born in Westbrook, Maine, on Jan. 11, 1938, the youngest of six children born to Mary and Raymond Butterfield. He graduated from Westbrook High School and Gorham State Teacher’s College.

Known to everyone as “Red”, he was scrappy from the start and never one to tolerate unfairness or bullying in any form. He was always quick to stand up for those who could not easily stand up for themselves. Through the love and influence of Sue, his high school sweetheart, and the love of his life, he learned to channel that pluck and passion with grace and purpose. Red loved gardening, sports competitions, hunting and fishing, and later in life, he took great pleasure in working closely with Keith on the oyster farm. Above all, he loved the beautiful family he and Sue built together.

Red was predeceased by his wife of 63 years, Suzanne (Francoeur) Butterfield; and by his son, Keith.

He is survived by his children Kirk, Karen, Kelly, Kathie, Krista, Karla, and Kevin, along with their partners Gretchen Curtis, Roxanne Borcich, Martin Foley, Jeffrey Meninno, and Blue Butterfield. He will be dearly missed by his nine grandchildren, Lucas, Philip, and Simon Butterfield; Danielle, Colette, and Austin Donnelly; Suzanna Butterfield; and Satchel and Bryce Butterfield.

Whether as a history teacher, a director of public service programs, or a small business owner, Red brought enthusiasm, confidence, and hard-earned patience to everything he did. He helped keep eight bicycles road-ready, figured out who would cover overlapping school and sporting events, and never said no to another game of toss, a piggyback ride, a ski around the lake, or a bedtime story.

Red had a deep belief in fairness and kindness as well as a massive soft-spot for all children. Together, he and Sue instilled those values in their family, leading by example and dedicating themselves completely.

Instead of funeral services, the family will hold a private celebration of life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in support of the working waterfront at

Seameadow.org