Dr. David Edward Butt, 86, of State College, Pennsylvania, passed away on May 22, 2026.
Born on September 10, 1939, in Queens, New York, David was the son of the late Harold Butt and Marion Butt. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Susan Fargo Butt.
David is survived by his brother, Hal Butt; his children, Jeffery (Phyllis) and Karen; his grandchildren, Evan, Allie, Allison, and Bobby (Tracey); and his great-grandson, Luke. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend whose wisdom, kindness, and love will be deeply missed.
A lifelong educator, Dr. Butt earned his undergraduate degree from the State University of New York at Fredonia and later received his Ph.D. in Speech Communications from Penn State University. He dedicated much of his professional career to higher education and served as a professor/advisor in the both the Speech Communications program and the MBA Program at Penn State University’s Smeal College of Business. Through his teaching, mentorship, and scholarship, he influenced countless students and colleagues.
Dr. Butt was a gifted musician, playing clarinet and saxophone and performing in numerous bands throughout his life. He also enjoyed playing the piano, which remained a lifelong source of joy and expression. In addition, he was an accomplished artist who valued creativity in many forms. He loved the outdoors, especially fishing, and was an active member of Trout Unlimited. He and his wife, Susan, traveled extensively throughout the United States and abroad, sharing a lifelong appreciation for exploration and new experiences.
Dr. Butt will be remembered for his intellect, creativity, generosity, humor, and deep commitment to education and family. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched as a teacher, mentor, musician, artist, and friend.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at The Triple Crown Restaurant, 593 E Lancaster Ave, St Davids, PA.