Robert Lester "Butch" Berisford

Robert Lester "Butch" Berisford, known fondly as "Butch," passed away on January 17, 2025, in Chesterfield, Virginia, after a courageous battle with primary progressive aphasia at the age of 76. Born on June 25, 1948, in Biloxi, Mississippi, Butch was a proud Vietnam War veteran who served in the Air Force and a dedicated public servant. He was preceded in death by his father, Hubert L. Berisford (1986); and his mother, Norma E. Berisford (2016).

Butch is survived by his two loving daughters, Amanda D. Arnold and her husband, Adam, and Leslie B. Wargofack and her husband, Josh. He was the proud grandfather of five grandsons, Levi Michael, Gabriel Phillip, Lukas Robert, Jonas Paul, and Greyson James. He is also survived by his two sisters, Debbie Daniel and her husband, John, and Pamela Turner and her husband, Harry; along with his four nieces, Jennifer, Kayleigh, Jessica, and Traci; and many great-nieces and nephews, all of whom he cherished deeply.

Butch's life was defined by his unwavering dedication to others. He served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War and went on to have a distinguished career with the Petersburg Fire Department, where he served for three decades. He was proud of his service to the country and community, and his legacy of selflessness and commitment will never be forgotten.

Outside of work, Butch had a deep love for the outdoors and enjoyed many hobbies, including boating, fishing, hunting, biking, and photography. He was fascinated by automobiles, aircraft, and astronomy, but above all, he treasured the time spent with his family and devoted friends including Buddy Zaradka, Glenn Dean, and Johnny Blaha. His grandsons were the light of his life, and he took great joy in watching them grow.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 pm, on Friday, January 24, 2025, at J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home - Petersburg Chapel, 103 S. Adam Street, with Rev. Jim Rogers officiating. Interment will follow at Southlawn Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 6:00 - 8:00 pm, on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers Butch's daughter, Leslie is collecting donations to the Mike Goff Memorial scholarship fund. You can make donations to https://www.paypal.me/LeslieWargofcak. 

Butch's love, wisdom, and generosity will be missed by all who knew him. May he rest in peace.