Just last month, Bullis School celebrated their star athlete Quincy Wilson’s historic achievement. Their student had etched his name in the record books, becoming the youngest U.S. male track and field athlete to win an Olympic medal. However, on Monday, September 2, even before the joy of Wilson’s achievement had faded, the Bullis community was shaken by a tragic loss.

Bullis Bulldogs’ football coach Ray Butler passed away unexpectedly at just 48. The shocking loss of the beloved coach shocked the entire community, especially the athletes who trained under him. The school’s head, Christian Sullivan, announced the tragic news the following day, and now the whole community, including Quincy Wilson’s mother, is mourning their loss.

“RIH (rest in heaven) Coach Ray,” Monique Wilson wrote while sharing the post on her Instagram story. The official Bullis School Instagram post she shared spoke about the impact Butler had as a coach. “He was a mentor, coach, and friend to so many of us. We will miss you, Coach.” the School’s Instagram page wrote in the caption.

Christian Sullivan had nothing but praise of the coach. The Head of the School wrote about the “profound impact” the head varsity football coach had on the pitch. However, Ray Butler’s journey as the school’s head coach was nothing less than unconventional. The 48-year-old had two very different roles at Quincy Wilson’s high school.

Bullis School hired Ray Butler as the school’s head coach in May 2023, and before that, he worked as the assistant coach. Besides coaching the Bulldogs, Butler also worked as the school’s security guard. It was this protective instinct that helped him form a bond with not just the football athletes but nearly every student, including the track and field athletes.

Unfortunately, his efforts to reinvigorate the school’s football team never came to fruition. Ray Butler suffered a brain hemorrhage after a preseason scrimmage while talking to the team. According to the Washington Post, the coach fell unconscious during his speech on August 24. Days later, he suffered a second hemorrhage, causing further damage to his brain.

Butler passed away late at night on Monday after suffering a brain aneurysm. The 48-year-old’s untimely death united the entire Potomac, Maryland, community to come together for a common goal.

Community contribution to a noble cause

People who personally knew the Butler revealed just how much of a positive impact the coach had on the community. “A profound loss for all that knew him and all who won’t have that opportunity. He never met a stranger —kind of heart — always welcoming with a big hug and warm and genuine smile. Our family is grieving his loss along with the entire Bullis community past and present.” commented a Potomac resident.

Meanwhile, another community member revealed that Butler’s absence will continue to haunt the community. “Rest easy coach we miss more and more by the day,” commented an Instagram user. However, the sporting community did far more than just express their shock and sadness at Butler’s passing. Another Potomac resident, Avi Benaim, started a GoFundMe in the late coach’s name.

Benaim, spoke to the Washington Post, saying he knew Butler well and organized the fundraiser for his late friend’s two children. Benaim’s sons trained under the late Bulldogs coach, and when his wife passed away, Butler stood beside him. “Don’t worry about your kids. I got them,” the late coach told Benaim in 2017. The GoFundMe campaign raised over $50,000 in three days.

It currently stands at $59,873, with 351 contributions, and is proof of just how many lives Ray Butler touched during his short 48-year life. Even people who didn’t belong to the football or track and field community sent their papers and wishes. “We are so sorry for the loss to his family and the Bullis community of this fine man. Sending our thoughts and prayers,” a netizen commented on the post.

Meanwhile, others are looking to carry the passionate football coach’s legacy. Ray Butler had big plans for the Bulldogs and the people hope to see that vision realized, even after his passing. “The coach Love you coach, the job is not done. #ItsDifferentOnFallsRdh.” wrote an athlete. There is little doubt that Coach Butler’s passing was a massive blow for everyone, including Quincy Wilson and his family. However, every Bullis School athlete who strives for success will honor the late coach’s spirit.