James Curtin Butler

James C. Butler, 93, of Paris, KY, formerly of Ellicott City, MD, passed away peacefully on February 21, 2025, surrounded by his three daughters.  Born in Wilmington, DE, on August 8, 1931, he was the son of the late James D. Butler and the late Helen L. (Curtin) Butler.

James (Jim) was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 56 years, Joan Adelle (Osborne) Butler in 2009. He is survived by his loving daughters, Helen (John, d. 2010) Nichols, of Westfield, IN; Caroline (Paul) Hash, of Westminster, MD; and Elizabeth (Mark) Urbanowski, of Westfield, IN. He was a cherished grandfather to Ryan (Casey) Hash, Sarah (Jeff) Guidera, Alex (Karen) Hash, James Nichols, Kate (Kyle) Kmiecik, Haley Urbanowski and Logan Urbanowski; and was great-grandfather to Ava and Eli Hash.

Jim served in the U.S. Army from 1955-1957 and was a graduate of Combat Intelligence School.  He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Kent State University and a Master’s degree in Communications from Syracuse University. His distinguished career included his service as Director of Public Relations at The Johns Hopkins University & Hospital, Baltimore, MD; Vice President for University Affairs at Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH; Director of Communications for the American Association for the Advancement of Science, Washington, DC; and as President & CEO of JB Associates, Washington, DC.

Jim dedicated his life to advancing public understanding and awareness in science, health, education, and the arts and humanities through media, both in the U.S. and internationally. A gifted writer, communicator and visionary, he played a pivotal role in creating innovative forums, authoring academic works, and delivering impactful speeches that shaped public discourse on medicine and science.

His contributions to media and science were widely recognized, including the prestigious Peabody Award for his instrumental role in the creation, planning, and production of NOVA, the PBS television series that became the most-watched prime-time science program in American television history. His work left a lasting impact, bringing the latest and most groundbreaking advancements in science and medicine to a broad audience.

Jim will be remembered for his sharp intellect, quick wit, genuine kindness, and unwavering devotion to his family. He had a deep appreciation for golf, American history, music, and travel—but above all, he cherished any opportunity to take in a breathtaking ocean view. 

Throughout his lifetime, Jim cultivated memories in so many different places, but some of his favorites were La Salle, IL; Cape Cod, MA; and Three Sisters Farm in Paris, KY.  

Jim will be dearly and profoundly missed by all who knew and loved him.

A private family service and Christian burial will take place at a later date in Lexington, KY.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to benefit the historical Cane Ridge Meeting House (payable to “Cane Ridge Shrine, Inc.”, P.O. Box 26, Paris, KY 40362-0026).  Please include "James Butler" in the memo.

Bussell Family Funerals is privileged to assist the family in arrangements.

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