Obituary of James Butts

James C. “fireball” Butts Of Farmington, NY passed away in his sleep on May 4, 2013 at Clifton Springs Hospital. He is survived by a brother, Paul Butts of MD. Born November 26, 1938 in MD, Fireball traveled to Farmington, NY in the spring of 1962 to be a jockey the opening season of the Finger Lakes Race Track. For 51 years he continued employment at the “Back Track” with various trainers, farms and horse owners. A Navy veteran, he was a longstanding member of the American Legion. The first to volunteer and always available to march in every parade, he loved being a part of the Shortsville Legion. There are many things people will remember about this man of meager means. Perhaps that he always had a smile on his face and a song in his heart; perhaps that his glass was always half full even when we may have thought it was empty. Perhaps that he worked hard and played harder. No matter the memory, it will bring a smile to your face and tear to your eye to realize he is no longer with us. His family from the American Legion and the Finger Lakes Horsemen’s Benevolent & Protective Association invite his large extended family and many friends to attend a memorial service and dinner will be held at the American Legion in Shortsville on Sunday, May 19th from 1pm. to 5 pm. Contributions may be made in Fireball’s name to the American Legion To share a memory or express condolences on line please visit fullerfh.com. Sunday May 19, 2013, 1 pm. - 5 pm. at shortsville American Legion post Click for Map and Directions