In Memoriam: Coach Butler Sr. A Life Well Lived

Lorenza ‘Coach’ Phillips Butler Sr, 93 Left His Mark 

Coach Lorenza Phillips Butler, Sr. was a true Texas legend, known throughout southeast Texas for his unwavering dedication to his faith, family, country, and community. With a passion for life and liberty, he lived a remarkable life of service and mentorship, leaving behind a legacy that will endure for generations.

Born on September 13, 1929, near Damon, Texas, Coach Butler was one of eight children born to Lanie and Madora Virginia Jackson Phillips. He was adopted and raised by Ervin and Erma Lee Jackson Butler in Fourth Ward, Texas. Despite growing up during the Great Depression, he attended Lincoln Gregory School and Booker T. Washington High School, where he excelled academically and athletically. He went on to study at Texas College in Tyler, Texas and later helped Texas Southern University win 1952 Football Championship as its quarterback.

During the Korean War, Coach Butler displayed incredible bravery and served his country with distinction as a member of the U.S. Army. After his military service, he returned home and continued his education at Texas Southern University, where he earned both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree. Additionally, he received specialized police training at the University of Houston Downtown, which led him to become a deputy constable under Harris County Pct. 6 Constable Martinez. Coach Butler's commitment to serving his community and his country throughout his life was truly admirable.

Coach Butler's true passion was coaching and mentoring young people, and he dedicated his life to helping them achieve their full potential. He began his teaching career at Dunbar High School in Dickinson ISD and later served as head coach in football and track and athletic director at Lamar Fleming High School, HISD. Over the years, Coach Butler became a beloved mentor to countless students, inspiring them to excel in all areas of their lives, including academics, sports, and law enforcement. Many of his former students went on to become semi-pro and professional players in the NBA and NFL, a testament to Coach Butler's ability to inspire and guide his students toward greatness.

In addition to his work as a coach and mentor, Coach Butler was the first Athletic Director for Houston Community College.  He was also committed to public safety and served as a police leader and a builder of businesses. He was a patriarch to Texas' longest-running Black newspaper (Houston Informer) leaving his mark on the business community as a clear and conscientious advisor to those who came after him.

On March 14th, 2023, Coach Butler passed away at the age of 93 after a long struggle with health issues following a traumatic vehicle accident. He is survived by his wife Hilda, his children, and an extended family of loved ones who will miss him dearly. His son, Publisher Lorenza Butler Jr., summed up his father's legacy best, saying, "Coach was my mentor. He is why I am here and how I'll go forward."

Coach Butler's impact on the communities he served will never be forgotten. His life was a testament to the power of mentorship and the enduring spirit of service. Rest in peace, Coach Butler.

The viewing 12:30 PM -1:00 PM on March 26, 2023.

The funeral services 1:00 PM on March 26, 2023  

Metropolitan CME Church

8955 South Freeway Houston, TX 77051

713-748-5947

The Internment will be held on Monday, March 27, 2023

at 1:45 PM, Houston National Cemetary (V.A.)

For those asking, please donate to HoustonInformerFoundation.org in lieu of plants and flowers.