Obituary: Elaine Catherine Butler, 56, of New London

NEW LONDON, CT - (From Neilan Funeral Home) Elaine Catherine Butler, 56, died unexpectedly at home on June 24th.Elaine was born November 19, 1963 in New London, where she lived most of her life.

She graduated from St. Joseph School and St. Bernard High School. She earned a BA and a MS degree in Counseling from Southern CT State University.

Elaine spent her professional career dedicated to helping others, first as a Counselor at the Magnet School in New London, and in recent years protecting the most vulnerable members of our community in her role as a Conservator and Guardian in the state court system.

Elaine was a talented athlete, and was the first girl to play Little League Baseball in Connecticut. She went on to play varsity softball at St. Bernard and intramural softball at SCSU. At the age of 20, upon a dare from her brother, she entered and won the New London Miss Italiano pageant.

For many years she coached both youth softball and basketball in New London. She remained very fit in her adult life, regularly working out at the gym and power walking with friends along the streets of New London. Elaine was a lifelong communicant at St. Joseph Church.

Elaine was predeceased by her beloved father Harry Butler. In recent years, she has selflessly served as primary and loving care giver to her mother Eleanor Satti Butler.

She is survived by her five siblings Jim Butler and his wife Debbie of New London; Colleen McLaughlin and her husband Rob of Miramar, FL; Brian Butler and his wife Rosemarie of Beverly Hills, FL; Patrick Butler and his wife Tricia of Louisville, CO; and Michael Butler and his wife Laurie Pellegren of Moodus, CT; her long-time companion Ray Suarez of New London; and ten nieces and nephews who adored her.

Services are private. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 9:30 a.m., Friday, July 3, at St. Joseph Church, New London. Due to the necessity of social distancing, priority seating will be given to Elaine’s family. Seating for the public will be limited.

An internment service will follow at St. Mary Cemetery.Donations in her memory can be made to the Gemma E. Moran Food Bank in New London.

Condolences may be shared on Elaine’s memorial page at www.neilanfuneralhome.com