Jerry Butler, R&B Icon and Former Illinois Politician, Passes Away at 85
Renowned R&B singer and former Illinois politician Jerry “The Iceman” Butler has died at the age of 85.
His assistant, Marty—who considered herself his “niece at heart”—confirmed that Butler passed away at his Chicago home on Thursday night due to natural causes. She also shared that he had been battling Parkinson’s Disease.
Butler rose to fame as the lead vocalist of The Impressions, a pioneering R&B group that also featured Curtis Mayfield. His contributions to music earned him a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991. Following his time with The Impressions, Butler launched a successful solo career, delivering classic hits such as Only the Strong Survive and Never Give You Up.
Beyond his musical accomplishments, Butler made a lasting impact in politics. He served as a Cook County commissioner from 1985 until 2018, overseeing various initiatives. He also played a key role as Vice Chair of the Construction Committee and Chair of the Health and Hospitals Committee.
His passing is a profound loss to both the music industry and the political landscape.
