A club statement read: "It is with great sadness that we have to announce the untimely death of Richard Butcher.
"He passed away at his home in Manchester overnight [on Sunday]. He was an exemplary professional and a thoroughly likeable young man."
The statement added: "Our thoughts are with his wife and family at this very difficult time."
Butcher joined the Silkmen in the summer on a two-year deal following a successful loan spell.
No details have been given regarding his death.
Source: BBC Sport
Source: BBC Sport