William Elerson

William Elerson, lovingly known to many as “Butter” or “BB,” passed away unexpectedly on August 24, 2026, at the age of 56. Born on August 16, 1970, William was a Detroit, Michigan native who later made his home in Chicago, Illinois.

William was an amazing man, but above all else, he was a father and family man. His love for his children and family was undeniable. Life was not always easy for William, and he faced more than his share of difficult times, but he had a way of continuing to push forward. No matter what life placed in front of him, he found a way to make it through.

Those who knew William knew the simple things could make him happy. He loved to cook, and feeding the people he loved was one of the many ways he showed his care. He loved listening to music, spending time playing Xbox, and enjoying a good cup of coffee. More than anything, he valued his family and the time he was able to spend with the people closest to him.

William leaves behind six children who will forever carry his love and memory with them: Jazmyn J. Bass, Siera E. Elerson, William D. Elerson, Joseph (Kira) J. Elerson , Bryce Patrick, and Skylah Patrick. He also leaves behind five beloved grandchildren, two sons-in-law, and a daughter-in-law.

He held a special place in the lives of his two godchildren, Malachi Costine and Yahya Grant, and his love and influence will remain with them as well.

William is also survived by his mother, Barbara J Holts; stepfather, Joseph J Holts; brother, Clarence L. Elerson; sister, Barbie D. Hurst; along with extended family, friends, and loved ones who will deeply miss his presence.

He was preceded in death by his father, Clarence Elerson, and his former wife and best friend, Sarah (Sa’idah) E Costine, with whom he shared a bond that remained meaningful throughout their lives.

William’s passing came far too soon and unexpectedly, leaving an emptiness that words cannot fully describe. While his family mourns the loss of his physical presence, they will continue to carry the pieces of him that cannot be taken away—the memories, the laughter, the music, the meals he prepared, the conversations, and the love he gave.

William was a man who experienced hardship, persevered through it, loved his family, and kept going. His story cannot be summed up by the difficult moments he endured, nor by the day he left this earth. His story lives on through his children, his grandchildren, his family, and every person who was fortunate enough to know and love Butter—our BB.

He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Rest peacefully, B. Your fight is over, but your love remains with us forever.