Neutrelle

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of James Richard Neutrelle, aged 84. He lived a life dedicated to learning, faith, family and community. James passed away peacefully Monday, April 14, 2025. His family was blessed to be with him as he passed. An infant son and his parents, Earl and Lena Neutrelle, preceded him in death. Jim was born Feb. 17, 1941 in Ford City.

A lifelong educator, Jim touched the lives of countless students across generations. He began his teaching career at Butler Junior High School in 1963, where he taught English for 39 years. His duties included department chairperson, stage crew director and drama director. In 1986, he became the musical director for the Butler School District, implementing the all-school musical, which involved students in grades seven to 12.

After retiring from Butler, Jim became an adjunct professor for LaRoche University, teaching a variety of literature and education classes, and mentoring students who were entering the teaching profession. He continued this path for 20 years. He also started a theater program there which lasted for seven years. A line from a popular musical says, “Because I knew you, I have been changed for good.” An educator for more than 55 years, Jim believed that each one of the thousand of students he met over the years touched his heart and shaped his life in many ways. He hoped that he was able to impact their lives in some small way as well.

Another of Jim’s passions was musical theater. For 25 years, he served as a judge for the Henry Mancini High School Musical Theatre Program in Beaver, Butler and Lawrence counties. One highlight was the opportunity to chaperone two top musical students to New York City for the National High School Musical Theatre Program.

An active and respected member of his community, Jim gave his time generously, always seeking ways to support and uplift others. Since its inception, he volunteered at the Community Health Clinic of Butler County. He could often be seen at Katie’s Kitchen, putting meals together for anyone in need. As a lector in his church, he brought the Word of God to life with clarity and reverence, serving his congregation faithfully for many years.

His greatest joy of all was spending time with his family, because family meant everything to Jim. He was a loving and proud father to three children, grandfather to five grandchildren, and a great-grandfather to three great-grandchildren. He loved reading to them, playing Boggle, and taking them to shows. He also LOVED taking them for ice cream, sharing his “joke of the day,” and especially sharing stories about his own experiences. His favorite treat was M&M’s, and up until his passing, family, friends and students loved sharing this treat with him.

Jim is survived by his wife, Anna Marie. They shared a beautiful life together for 62 years. He is survived by three children, Lisa Oesterling and her husband Dale, Michael and his wife, Marion (Merms) and Darren and his life partner, Jenni. He is also survived by grandchildren, Andrea Sidun and her husband, Chris, Brian Oesterling, Lianne Stathopoulos and her husband, Nik, and Jami and Jacob Neutrelle. He is also survived by three great-grandchildren. Claire, Eva and Calvin Sidun.

Finally, Jami, his granddaughter, interviewed him three years ago for a college project. She asked him, “If a person came to you and asked you what the most influential thing in living a good life is, what would you say?” His response was, “Be as kind to others as you can, try to always be aware of people’s feelings, and don’t be judgmental.”

NEUTRELLE — Visitation for James Richard Neutrelle, who died Monday, April 14, 2025, will begin at 11 a.m., with a blessing service following at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 19, at BOYLAN FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION CENTER OF CONNOQUENESSING TOWNSHIP, 856 Evans City Road, Renfrew, PA 16053.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his memory to Katie’s Kitchen, C/O Butler Community Meal Ministries, 201 W. Jefferson St., Butler, PA 16001.

Online condolences and directions are at www.boylanfuneralservices.com.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.