Henry Phillip Winston III, affectionately known as “Butch,” passed away on December 31, 2025, in Akron, Ohio, at the age of 66.

Henry was born on November 21, 1959, to the union of Henry Phillip Winston Jr. and Frankie Mae Winston. A lifelong Akron native, he attended Akron Public Schools and graduated in the Class of 1977 from John R. Buchtel High School. During his high school years, Butch made a lasting impression—both on and off the field. He proudly played Linebacker (#50) on the football team, was honored as “King B” of the 1977 King B Court and was voted “Best Dressed” by his classmates, a title that reflected his signature style and confidence.

Following high school, Henry attended Kent State University before making a pivotal move to Atlanta, Georgia, where he truly found his voice and calling. In Atlanta, Butch rose to prominence as a beloved radio personality, hosting one of the city’s most popular morning shows on Magic 107.5 (WAMJ) and V-103 (WVEE). It was there that DJ Butchie Butch was born. Through his work, he interviewed and connected with some of the most influential voices in music and entertainment, including James Ingram, Howard Hewitt, Fred “The Hammer” Williamson, Bill Withers, and countless others—meeting “anyone who was everyone” in the genre. Always quick with humor, Butch famously joked that the only person he was taller than was Stephanie Mills.

In addition to radio, Butch became a familiar and celebrated presence at the iconic Jellybeans Roller Rink in Southwest Atlanta, spinning records and energizing crowds at a venue later immortalized by the film ATL.

After returning home to Akron, Butch continued to do what he loved—bringing people together. He worked alongside his childhood friend DJ Lance (Lance Bell), hosting events throughout Northeast Ohio. A truly gifted MC, Butch had an unmistakable radio voice, sharp wit, and a natural ability to keep the party alive. Laughter followed him wherever he went.

Friends and family knew that if you stopped by Stoner Street, you would be welcomed with a warm smile and invited into the “Ultra Lounge,” which Butch proudly described as the Ultimate Experience. Independence mattered deeply to him, and he embraced entrepreneurship through his lawn care service and Bald Head Fashions, always staying true to himself.

Henry Phillip Winston III was preceded in death by his parents, Henry Phillip Winston Jr. and Frankie Mae Winston; his sister, Cynthia Winston; his uncles, Donnelle Rookard, Henry Bill, Robert “Bobby” Turner, and Daniel Turner; his aunt Luberta Rookard and Hellen Turner; and his dear friends Anthony Bailey and Nolan Heflin, his bicycle designer and longtime friend.

Henry leaves behind to celebrate his life and keep alive his memory daughter,

Monique May of Tampa, FL; son, Austin Foxworth of Atlanta, GA; devoted niece, Bethany (Corey) Appleton of Nashville, TN; uncle, James “Jet” (Sharron) Turner of Murrieta, CA; best friends, Lance (Julia) Bell, Henry Spain, John (Cynthia) Taylor, and Cynthia D. Blake (Robin) Stokes. Along with other family members, neighbors, former classmates, and many, many friends.

Butch will be remembered for his larger-than-life presence, infectious laughter, unmistakable voice, and the joy he brought into every room he entered. His legacy lives on in the music he shared, the memories he created, and the countless lives he touched.

Memorial service will be held on January 15, 2026, at 2:00 pm at Lawton Street Community Center, 1225 Lawton St. Akron, Oh 44320.