It was with great sadness that the Rochester Bridge Trust learned of the death of Senior Warden, Derek Butler.
Derek served as a highly respected member of the Court of Wardens and Assistants for ten years, and became a valued friend and colleague to his fellow trustees.
Sue Threader, Bridge Clerk (Chief Executive) at the Trust, said: “Having fought a trying illness with much fortitude and courage over the past few months, Derek passed away just as his term as Senior Warden was coming to an end. Throughout this very difficult time, he maintained his trademark cheerfulness and commitment to the Trust and his support to the staff. We were all extremely saddened by the news and send our condolences to his family.”
A former Mayor of Maidstone, Derek represented Boxley Ward on Maidstone Borough Council and served on many Overview and Scrutiny Committees and as Chairman of the Audit Committee.
He was nominated by Maidstone Borough Council to the Rochester Bridge Trust in 2015. He was elected Junior Warden for two years in May 2021, and served as Senior Warden from May 2023 until his death in May 2025. He was also involved with the work of several other charities and volunteered as a Maidstone Street Pastor on Saturday nights, working closely alongside the police and paramedics to provide emotional, spiritual and practical support to those in need in the town centre.
Born in Lewisham, he moved to the Medway Towns in 1973 and then to Maidstone in 1984. During his career Derek worked for The National Coal Board in the Medical Services and the Treasurers Department and then for the Court Service at The City of London Magistrates Court and finally at Bromley Magistrates Court until his retirement in 2014.