Annapolis Community Helps Beloved Crossing Guard With Funeral Expenses

ANNAPOLIS, MD — An online fundraiser has been set up to help a beloved Annapolis crossing guard pay his wife's funeral expenses. The Annapolis Police Department shared the request to help on its Facebook page, and is also collecting donations at the police station.

"Many of you in Annapolis know George Butler, our crossing guard is a fixture in the downtown area, where he serves the children of Annapolis Elementary and St. Mary's. George's wife died recently and he needs our help with the funeral expenses," the department posted.

"George is a smile on my face every morning that I walk downtown during the week," Lisa Foulke Pline wrote on Facebook.

The Help George Butler Funeral Fund on GoFundMe said that he is unable to afford the funeral expenses. "If you can graciously help him out, it would bless him tremendously," the page creator said. "George is an asset to our town and to the Police Department and a good man. Let's help him out in his time of need."

Just over $3,400 was donated Thursday night, about three hours after the site was launched. The fundraising goal was listed at $2,000.

To donate by writing a check, make it out to George Butler and drop it by the Annapolis Police Department at 199 Taylor Ave.

»Photo of Annapolis crossing guard George Butler, courtesy of Annapolis Police Department