Mr. Joseph Melvin Burton, Sr.

JOSEPH M. BURTON, SR. (MELVIN) was born on September 5, 1944 in Green County, Alabama. He was the youngest of three children born to the union of Earman and Sarah J. Burton. Both parents and "Big Brother" (Earman L Burton, Sr.) preceded him in death. 

Melvin was raised in the church, accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and was baptized at an early age. He remained rooted in his spiritual upbringing throughout his life. 
He received his elementary and secondary education in the Kinloch School District. Melvin graduated from Kinloch High School in May/June 1962, where he was very popular among students and was a stand-out baseball player. 

He married his high school sweetheart, Sandra J. Eldridge after his high school graduation, and to their union were born Susan A Farmer and Joseph M. Burton, Jr. He was later united in marriage to Kathy M. Buckner in December 1979 and to their union was born Maria A Burton. 

Melvin was drafted into the United States Marine Corps in December 1968, serving honorably until his discharge from active service in May 1970. During his time in service he was awarded the Combat Action Ribbon for his 'active participation in ground or surface combat', and the Purple Heart for injuries suffered. He was a proud lifelong Marine "Devil Dog", and a long-time member and supporter of the Disabled American Veterans Organization. Over the years, Melvin was employed in various capacities for numerous companies prior to his retirement in 2006. 
He counted it a blessing and great honor that he was able to be a caretaker for his mother during her final years. 

He leaves to cherish his memory: his loving children, Susan A Farmer, Joseph M. Burton, Jr. (Lisa) and Maria A Burton; his loving sister, Susie M. Davis; grandchildren, Krista AL Farmer, Felecia A Powell, Joseph M. Burton III (Stephanie) and Brandon M. Burton (fiance Brittany); great-grandsons, Keing M. Powell, Joseph M. Burton IV and Sebastian M. Burton; niece, Lisa Pampkin Qerome); nephew, Craig Burton; and a host of cousins and friends. 

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