Skip to main content In memory of John Butler
It is with a heavy heart that we share the sad news that John Butler, our company accountant, tragically passed away on Thursday 11th March.
Having played a pivotal role in the business for over 30 years, the sudden loss of John has had a devastating impact on not just his family but also friends, colleagues and clients. A true gentleman, he will be greatly missed by all.
John was a highly respected character at HBS, with a welcoming nature, enthusiasm and a uniquely calming presence that benefited so many. He showed genuine interest in everyone and was renowned for being a great listener, always taking the time to provide wise and valuable advice.
As one of HBS’ longest-standing employees, John was a key pillar of the business, steadying the ship through multiple recessions, supporting Managing Director Kevin Bull as the dependable rock.
He watched Kevin’s son’s James, Alex and Charles grow up, and in more recent years, he supported them in their respective roles, acting as an influential figure as they set about their careers, leading the company forward.
John was a big sports fan, regularly attending Southampton FC football matches at St Mary’s and international rugby matches at Twickenham. He also had a great passion for golf, regularly getting in rounds after work and at weekends. At many of our company and client golf days over the years, he was the “Mr Consistent” that everyone wanted in their team, never missing the fairway.
John was more than just an employee or a colleague, he was one of the family at HBS. His years of dedication, loyalty and a real sense of care will be greatly missed.
James Bull, Managing Director at HBS New Energies said: “I have known John my entire life. From my early years as a child coming to HBS picking and sorting pipe fittings to running our New Energies division. I only have good memories of John. At work he was always so welcoming, calming, genuine and a fountain of knowledge willing to share advice. I will sorely miss our one on one conversations about HBS’s grand ideas. Outside work John was the man you wanted around. Never a show-off, never loud but his presence was enough to bring a smile to anyone’s face. John really was like one of our family and we are all very upset by his loss. My love goes out to John’s wife, children and grandchildren. I’m proud and grateful to have spent such a large amount of my life with him. Rest in peace John.”
A service to celebrate the life of John Butler
To celebrate the life of John Butler, a service is taking place on Thursday 15th April at 3.15 pm at the Wessex Vale Crematorium, Bubb Lane, Southampton, SO30 2HL. If anyone would like to pay their respects outside the crematorium this is welcomed within current social distancing guidance. In keeping with John’s personality, the family have requested no black ties, please.
There is a stream of the service that has been organised, so if you would like to watch it, please contact James Bull for access details.
A Just Giving page has also been set up where you can leave your messages and memories of John and donate if you wish to the family’s selected charity, Naomi House Children’s Hospice.