Bruce Butterworth

Bruce Edward Butterworth, 83 of North Port, FL, formerly of West Greenwich passed away peacefully on Monday, July 15, 2019. Born in Providence he was the son of the late Ralph and Lucy (Miller) Butterworth. He was the loving husband of the late Patricia (Luchka) Butterworth. They were married for 59 years prior to her passing in 2018.

Upon graduating high school Bruce enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served aboard the USS Nautilus, (the world’s first nuclear class submarine) in Operation Sunshine, a top secret mission to cross under the polar ice cap.

An avid sailor and member of East Greenwich Yacht Club, Bruce had a passion for the water. Starting as a junior sailor from Edgewood Yacht Club and later sailing and racing along with friends and family aboard the schooner Malabar III. Much of his life was dedicated to promoting sailing. Bruce was a partner in North East Yacht Sales, a founding member of the West Bay Yacht Club and in retirement he taught youth sailing at Englewood Sailing Association for 14yrs. Besides his passion for sailing, Bruce spent winters skiing at Cannon Mountain and across New Hampshire with family and friends.

He was the beloved father to his three daughters, the late Kelly Butterworth of Providence, Joyce Sellon (husband Paul) of North Kingstown, and Cheryl Padilla (husband Rafael) of Tiverton. He was the loving grandfather to his six grandchildren, Curtis, Kyle and Tricia Sellon, David, Kristen and Rachel Padilla.

Bruce was predeceased by his sister, Jackie Murphy.

A Celebration of Bruce and Patricia’s life will be held on August 9th, from 2-5pm, at the East Greenwich Yacht Club, 10 Water St, East Greenwich, RI 02818.