James W. "Jimmy" Burton's Obituary
Decatur-James W. (Jimmy) Burton, 83, of Decatur, died October 25, 2013 in Decatur Memorial Hospital.
Services to celebrate James’ life will be held on 1 p.m. Tuesday, October 29, 2013 in Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home with visitation one hour before services. Burial will be at Macon County Memorial Park, Harristown with military rites conducted by the Macon County Honor Guard. Memorials may be made to Wabash Memorial Hospital or to the Disabled Veterans Association.
Jimmy was born October 26, 1929 in Decatur, the son of Shirley and Lucile Burton. He married Joyce Hedger on July 3, 1953 in Decatur, IL. He graduated from Decatur High School in 1947 and proudly served two tours of duty with the U.S. Army, receiving medals for Army of Occupation and National Defense. He remained in the U.S. Army Reserve for forty years, retiring with the rank of M/Sgt. in 1989. He was employed by the Wabash Railroad (Norfolk Southern) for forty-three years. He retired in 1990.
Jimmy not only served his country, he also served as President of his union, T.C.U. Local 6277. After he retired, he served as secretary/treasurer for the Railroad Retirees for 12 years and Legislative Representative for N.A.R.V.R.E.
He was a member of the American Legion, V.F.W., K.W.V.A., and NAUS, and the Wabash Memorial Aux.
Jimmy’s parents raised him in a loving, Christian home, and he was a member of Riverside Baptist Church. Later he attended Grace United Methodist. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and is survived by his wife, Joyce Burton; son, Eric Richard Burton, Fresno, CA; grandchildren, Ian Pride, Erin Pride, and Lori Burton; seven great-grandchildren; and sister, Elizabeth Wetherholt and her husband Al.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, James Daniel Burton; and daughter, Angela Yvonne.
Though your smile is gone forever,
And your hand I cannot touch.
I still have many memories of the one I love so much
Your memory is my keepsake with which I’ll never part
God has you in his keeping
And I have you in my heart
I will love you forever
(Poem written by Joyce Burton)
The family of James W. (Jimmy) Burton. is being served by the Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home, 2091 N. Oakland Ave. Decatur, IL. Please view the online obituary, send condolences, and share memories at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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