Blake Buterbaugh, 19
Click on link to view Blake’s Memorial Video
Blake Buterbaugh
April 27, 2006 – October 26,2025
Blake Buterbaugh was a bright flame in a world that often moves too slowly to notice such light. Born in Orange Park, Florida, he lived a life of purpose, pride, and resolve, leaving an impression far greater than the years granted him.
An honor graduate of Middleburg High School, Blake excelled in both mind and body. He played soccer, yet his heart beat strongest in service — as a cadet and Operations Officer in the Middleburg High School Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC), he led his team to the National Finals with quiet determination and steadfast courage.
He was a young man who loved to set goals and achieve them. A youth fueled by purpose, a proud big brother, and a soul devoted to service, Blake carried himself with the kind of drive and integrity that inspired all who knew him. He looked forward to an exciting future, with adventure and responsibility in equal measure.
Blake’s love for life was as broad as it was deep. He explored the wilds of Alaska during the summer of 2023, cared tenderly for his tropical fish, and shared laughter and joy with his dog, Sam, his family dogs, and his brothers. At Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, he pursued an Unmanned Aircraft Systems degree, joined the U.S. Air Force ROTC, and earned induction into the Arnold Air Society for his outstanding achievements.
Faith was the compass of Blake’s life. Guided by his belief in the Lord, he approached every day with courage, devotion, and a heart open to love and service.
He is survived by his mother, Rebecca Davenport; father, Kent Buterbaugh; brothers, Christian and Tyler; sisters, Brittany and Stephanie; grandmother, Marianne Davenport; and Joy Summers (Rich); grandmother, Peggy Buterbaugh; uncles, Sean Davenport (Kristen) and Keith (Michelle) Buterbaugh; and many beloved cousins.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Blake’s memory may be made to Hope Therapy Inc. www.hopetherapy.org or Middleburg NJROTC (NJROTC) continuing the spirit of service, purpose, and care that defined his young life.
Funeral Services will be held 2:00 PM Monday, November 3, 2025 in the Chapel of Russell Haven of Rest with burial to follow in Russell Haven of Rest Cemetery. A time of visitation will begin at 1:00 PM prior to services.
Arrangements are under the care of Russell Haven of Rest Cemetery, Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 2335 Sandridge Road, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043. Family and friends may share their condolences at: www.RHRFH.com 904-284-7720
Silver Wings’ Post
This past weekend, we received heartbreaking news of the sudden and tragic passing of AAS C/1st Lt Blake Buterbaugh, Candidate Training Officer in the Daniel P. Woodward Squadron at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
On Sunday morning, October 26, Blake was training for a rucking competition. As he finished the race, he took a knee and collapsed. Nearby cadets immediately rendered aid while Campus Safety and EMS responded on scene. Despite their best efforts, Blake passed away at the hospital. Blake was more than a dedicated cadet; he was a friend, a leader, and a brother-in-arms whose character embodied the values we strive to uphold. His kindness, drive, and unwavering commitment to excellence left a mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
As we grieve this loss, let us remember that none of us walks this path alone. Lean on your fellow members for strength and support, and take time to check in on one another. Our bonds as Silver Wings and Arnold Air Society members are rooted in service, purpose, and compassion, and now, more than ever, we must live out those values together. “Blake exemplified what it means to serve with purpose and heart. His leadership inspired those around him to push harder, care deeper, and never lose sight of what it means to be a true wingman.
Though his time with us was far too short, his legacy will continue to shape the future of Det 157 and the greater AAS and SW community.” – Greg M. Adams, Col, USAF, Commander, Air Force ROTC Detachment 157 “We were so blessed to have had the chance to know Blake, to care for him, and to be cared for by him. He was a leader and a light, someone who brought joy, consistency, and drive into everything he did.
Blake led not just through words, but through action and heart. His grit and determination pushed everyone around him to rise to their best, and his legacy will continue to inspire us every day.”
– AAS C/Maj Gray Patterson, Squadron Commander, Daniel P. Woodward Squadron May he rest in peace.
Let us continue to honor his legacy through the values of Integrity, Service, and Excellence that he lived every day.
