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Jerry Butler, the soul singer known as “The Iceman” and a longtime Cook County commissioner, has died at the age of 84.
Butler’s smooth baritone voice made him a defining figure in R&B music, while his decades of public service left a lasting impact on the Chicago community.
Born in Sunflower, Mississippi, Butler moved to Chicago as a child, where he would later rise to fame as a founding member of The Impressions. His deep, emotive vocals on the group’s first hit, For Your Precious Love, set the stage for a prolific solo career, which included hits such as Only the Strong Survive, Hey, Western Union Man, and He Will Break Your Heart.
In 1985, Butler embarked on a new chapter, serving as a Cook County commissioner for more than 30 years. His leadership on the Health and Hospitals Committee played a key role in expanding healthcare access for residents.
Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle praised Butler’s dual legacy in music and public service in a statement:
“I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jerry ‘The Iceman’ Butler, a legendary artist, dedicated public servant, and beloved member of our Cook County community. Jerry Butler’s contributions to music and public service are immeasurable.
Jerry Butler was more than a musical icon—he was a dedicated public servant who gave over three decades of his life to the residents of Cook County. As a Cook County Commissioner from 1985 to 2018, he worked tirelessly to expand healthcare access, improve infrastructure, and advocate for policies that strengthened our communities. His leadership as Chair of the Health and Hospitals Committee helped ensure that critical resources reached those in need.
On behalf of the residents of Cook County, I extend my deepest condolences to the Butler family, and all who loved him. His voice, his service, and his unwavering commitment to our community will never be forgotten.”
Commissioner Sean Morrison of Cook County’s 17th District also reflected on Butler’s impact, recalling their time working together:
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of my former colleague, Jerry ‘Iceman’ Butler. I had the privilege of working alongside Jerry for four years, during which time I came to admire his wisdom, thoughtfulness, and unwavering commitment to public service.
Jerry was a deep thinker who valued every perspective in a debate. He taught me the importance of listening to all sides of an issue and conducting our discussions with class and decorum. Despite being on opposite sides of the political aisle, we always found common ground and mutual respect.
I will always cherish the daily handshake we shared—a simple yet meaningful gesture that reflected his gentlemanly nature and his genuine concern for the people of Cook County. His leadership and presence will be greatly missed.
My thoughts and condolences go out to his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.”
Former Chicago Tribune music critic Greg Kot honored Butler’s musical legacy in social media posts, calling him “one of the great soul singers of all time.”
Butler’s contributions extended beyond the political sphere. In 1991, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Impressions. Even after stepping away from music’s spotlight, he remained active in civic life, using his influence to advocate for arts funding and social programs.
His legacy as both a musical pioneer and a dedicated public servant will be remembered by generations of fans and constituents alike.
The post Jerry Butler, Soul Legend and Longtime Cook County Commissioner, Dies at 84 appeared first on Southwest Regional Publishing.