Canon Michael Butler dies in road crash
Tributes have been paid to “warm and friendly” 82-year-old retired clergyman Michael Butler who died in a near his Aylsham home. His vehicle was involved in a collision on the A140 at Alby on November 28.
People who knew the former Church of England priest spoke of his warm and friendly personality and said he had a wide circle of friends.
Canon Butler, of Buxton Road, Aylsham, had visited prisoners at Norwich Prison, been a canon at Chichester Cathedral, and was involved in the creation of the Samaritans. He was a founding member and chairman of Aylsham Music Society, which organises lunchtime concerts in the town. He was a singer, pianist and a lover of theatre and opera.
An inquest opened into his death yesterday at Norwich Coroner’s Court. Assistant coroner Nicholas Holroyd said police were investigating the crash. He said a report stated the cause of death was “severe head and chest injuries secondary to a road traffic collision”.
The inquest was adjourned until May 6 next year. A date has yet to be set for the funeral.
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Photo of Canon Butler is courtesy of the North Norfolk News.