Dr. James Daniel Burton, beloved husband, father, grandfather, minister, teacher, and cherished member of the Portageville community, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2026, at 11:11 p.m., surrounded by the love of those who held him dear.

Danny was the son of Geneva Girvin Burton and R.B. Burton, both of whom preceded him in death, along with his beloved sister, Angela Stevens.

Above all, Danny was a devoted husband and father. He shared a life built on faith, love, and steadfast devotion with his beloved wife, Gail of 55 years. Together, they created a family that was the center of his heart and his greatest source of pride. He was a deeply loving father to his daughter, Ellen, and his son, Ross, offering unwavering support, wisdom, humor, and the kind of dependable love that made him a constant source of strength. He is also lovingly survived by his daughter-in-law, Natalie, who was a cherished and valued part of the family.

As a grandfather, he found immense joy in Victoria, Roya, and Daniel, cherishing every moment with them and taking deep pride in watching them grow.

He is also lovingly survived by his sister, Elizabeth McCoy, as well as his brothers- and sisters-in-law, and many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who will cherish his memory.

Danny was a man whose life was deeply woven into the fabric of Portageville. For generations of families, he was a familiar and trusted presence—a dedicated minister, teacher, and driver's education instructor whose kindness, patience, and faith touched nearly every corner of the community. He served not for recognition, but because serving others was simply who he was. Whether delivering a sermon, encouraging a student, patiently and humorously teaching a nervous teenager how to drive, or offering wisdom to a friend or neighbor, Danny had a remarkable gift for making people feel cared for, valued, and known.

Born with one arm, Danny faced life with extraordinary resilience and determination, never allowing his physical limitations to define him or diminish his independence. His quiet strength, perseverance, and unwavering spirit served as an inspiration to everyone who knew him. He lived as a powerful example that limitations do not determine a person's purpose.

He lived a life rooted in faith, humility, and service. He was the kind of man who showed up—for his family, his church, his friends, and his community—without hesitation and without expecting anything in return. His presence was steady, comforting, and deeply reassuring to those who loved him.

Though his passing leaves a profound emptiness, the legacy he leaves behind is one of unwavering faith, enduring love, resilience, and a lifetime of service to others.

He will be remembered not only for what he did, but for who he was: a faithful servant, a loving husband, a proud father, grandfather and father – in- law and a truly good man whose impact will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

Matthew 25:23