North Kentucky News

The City of Covington is mourning the loss of former Mayor and City Commissioner Irvin T. “Butch” Callery, who passed away on Sunday. Mayor Joe Meyer expressed his condolences, stating, “Butch first entered politics as a fierce advocate for the Latonia neighborhood and wound up giving decades of his life to the residents of this community.” He added, “His love for Covington was rivaled only by his love for his wife, Joyce, to whom he was married for almost 52 years, and perhaps to the Cincinnati Reds.”

Callery, who served on the Covington City Commission from 1980 through 2000 and as Mayor from 2001 through 2008, was a dedicated public servant with a deep commitment to his community. With 29 years in office, he is believed to have been the longest-serving elected official in Covington's history. Additionally, Callery held the distinction of being the only person to have served as mayor in two different cities in Northern Kentucky.

Recognized for his contributions, Callery was named the “Elected Official of the Year” in 2017 by the Kentucky League of Cities. Beyond his political career, he was also known for his involvement in sports, being a member of the Northern Kentucky Sports Hall of Fame and a passionate coach and sponsor of local baseball and softball teams.

In a reflection of his love for sports, in 1962, Callery had the opportunity to try out for both the Cincinnati Reds and the Pittsburgh Pirates. A true sports enthusiast, Callery's legacy extended beyond politics into the realm of athletics.

Callery, who was 83 at the time of his passing, was a respected member of the community and a devoted parishioner at Holy Cross Parish in Latonia. He is survived by his daughter, three sons, eight grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. His wife, Joyce, who passed away in 2019, was an integral part of his life and legacy.

Services for Butch Callery will be held on Thursday, with further details available on the Connley Bros. website. The City of Covington joins the family and friends of Butch Callery in mourning the loss of a dedicated public servant and beloved community member.