The Lakeland Dreadnaught family and the entire community are mourning the tragic loss of Steward Butler Sr., a legendary American football player and Dreadnaught icon, who passed away at the age of 33.
Butler was a standout player for the Lakeland Dreadnaughts, one of the most renowned and respected football teams in the country, led by Coach Bill Castle since 1976.
Butler’s impressive football career includes numerous accolades, such as being the thirteenth best rusher in Herd history, despite only starting one game in his previous three seasons. He had seven games with over 100 yards rushing, including a memorable 233-yard performance in a 2014 overtime loss to Western Kentucky.
Butler’s speed and agility on the field earned him a reputation as a formidable player, with 21 carries of 20 yards or more, including an 83-yard touchdown run in 2014. He holds the record for most yards per carry in a career, with an average of 7.0 yards per carry, surpassing Erik Thomas’ school career record.
The community is in shock and grief, with many extending their condolences and prayers to Butler’s family and loved ones.
His legacy will live on, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and admired him. Funeral arrangements and obituary details will be announced by his family at a later time.
