Bruce Edward Butler, 75, a native of Beaumont, Texas, passed away after a long illness.  He was a graduate of Hebert High School class of 1967. Bruce joined the U. S. Army following graduation and served in the Vietnam War. He found his true passion as a chef, becoming a Chef with the Merchant Marines. Bruce retired after traveling the world with the Merchant Marines and moved to Houston, Texas.

He is preceded in death by his parents Esther “Essie” Ruth Samuel-Melonson and George Samuel, his father George Butler, Sr. and his oldest brother Johnnie Ray Butler. Bruce is survived by his daughter Latrissa “Reecie” Goodman (Ben), stepdaughter Dionne Harrison (Bobby) and his special companion Stella Mae Linden.

He was a loving brother to his siblings: George “Butch” Butler, Jr., Millie Denise West (Thomas), Myra Samuel Haynes (Cornelius), Marsh Anglaus Samuel and Arlana Ruth LeBlanc (Kevin). Also, his half-brothers: Samuel Butler, William Butler, Mike Butler, and half-sisters: Lois Morgan (Earnest) and Talitha Butler.

Also, a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, great-nieces, nephews, great-nephews, cousins and friends.