Chicago soul music giant and politician Jerry Butler dies at 85

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Chicago soul music giant and politician Jerry Butler has died at 85 years old.

Butler first broke onto the charts in 1958 with The Impressions for the ballad "For Your Precious Love."

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He was later inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with the group in 1991.

During the 1980s, Butler supported the campaign of Harold Washington.

His work as Cook County commissioner for over three decades was honored in 2019. That was Jerry Butler's second act after he was most know for the R&B classics he made famous.

And in 1985, he won public office as a Cook County commissioner. He served eight terms until his retirement in 2018.

Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle said in a statement:

"I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jerry "The Iceman" Butler, a legendary artist, dedicated public servant, and beloved member of our Cook County community.

Jerry Butler's contributions to music and public service are immeasurable. As a founding member of The Impressions, his distinguished voice helped shape the sound of R&B and soul, leaving an indelible mark on American music.

Jerry Butler was more than a musical icon-he was a dedicated public servant who gave over three decades of his life to the residents of Cook County. As a Cook County Commissioner from 1985 to 2018, he worked tirelessly to expand healthcare access, improve infrastructure, and advocate for policies that strengthened our communities. His leadership as Chair of the Health and Hospitals Committee helped ensure that critical resources reached those in need.

On behalf of the residents of Cook County, I extend my deepest condolences to the Butler family, and all who loved him. His voice, his service, and his unwavering commitment to our community will never be forgotten."

With his passing, he was remembered Friday for his talent and his voice to help others.

"I loved his music for a long time so it was a pleasure to service with home he was always in good didn't has a lot to say, but when he did speak, he was always thoughtful," Preckwinkle said.

Cook County Commissioner Bill Lowry represented the third district after Butler retired. Lowry said the man, originally from Sunflower, Mississippi, kept his family's early struggles front of mind as he advocated for healthcare for the people of Cook County.

"It's seems as though he never lost the compassion for others that hopefully he was shown as he grow up, but he came from this humble beginnings," Lowry said.

Butler was known as the "Ice Man," performing with the Impressions and then onto a solo career.

ABC7 found singer Terisa Griffin on the road Friday with a career she credits to Butler. She said she learned about performing, show business and how to stay grounded from Butler.

"He genuinely wanted to help everybody," Griffin said. "We lost a magnificent human being, not just an entertainer, not just a Cook County commissioner who mentored. We lost a tremendous knowledgeable human being who mentored, not just in music, but in life."

His family is still finalizing funeral arrangements, but they plan to have part of the services open to the public for his many fans to pay their respects.

Butler was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Annette Butler. They are survived by their twin sons.