Reston Association's 'Mr. RA' Larry Butler To Retire In June

RESTON, VA — One of the Reston Association's longest-serving employees, Chief Operation Officer Larry Butler, announced on Friday that he would be stepping down on June 23 after more than 40 years at RA.

“It has been a great run at RA," he said, in a statement released on Friday. "I have appreciated the organization’s support over the many years, and I have many lasting memories. Most memorable for me are the life-long friends I have made with the staff and many in the community with whom I have worked. For the next chapter of my life, I look forward to many adventures including hiking, biking, fishing and spending more time with my family and friends — preferably in the woods somewhere.”

During is 40-plus years at RA, Butler has served in a variety of positions, including as the association's director of parks and recreation and community resources and director of open space.

RA President Sarah Selvaraj-D’Souza said Butler was an integral part of "the fabric of RA" and called him "Mr. RA."

"The familiar face of the organization for decades bringing continuity and stability even during some rocky times," she said, in a release. "The RA Board is forever grateful to Larry for his leadership, historical knowledge, and most of all his service and commitment to Reston and all Restonians. He will truly be missed. We wish Larry the very best for this next chapter in his life. I'm sure it will be filled with camping trips, bike rides, chopping wood and stories around the fire with family and friends. Thank you Larry for being a friend to all of Reston. We wish you the very best.”

Starting as a seasonal employee in 1982, Butler left briefly to become the general manager of the Ashburn Village Community Association, according to the release. But "Mr. RA" couldn't stay away for long.

Returning to become the association's director of parks and recreation, Butler led the effort to create the RA's lakes and watershed management programs. During his tenure, he also helped get lights installed at the Browns Chapel Little League Field and secure funding and approvals for Nature House.

“The impact Larry has made on many Reston families’ lives, and the community in general, is profound," RA CEO Mac Cummins said, in the release. “He has served in nearly every capacity in our organization and has led our operations and various services in leadership capacities throughout his career here. The community owes him much, and the staff is blessed to have had a chance to work with him. He has truly made a difference in Reston and helped lead many important initiatives. I’d like to thank Larry for his service and contribution to building community in Reston.”