Lawrence Lester Burton

1943 - 2025

LAWRENCE LESTER BURTON Lawrence Lester "Larry" Burton passed away peacefully at home in Denton, Texas, on March 23, 2025, after a courageous journey with ALS. He faced the illness with grace, strength, and unshakable faith never letting it define who he was. He was 82 years old. Larry was born on January 15, 1943, in Moberly, Missouri, to Lester Andrew Burton and Hazel Elizabeth Burton. He grew up in Moberly and carried his small-town values with him throughout his life faith, humility, integrity, and a deep love for family. He spent much of his professional career with Firestone Tire Company, serving in a variety of leadership and human resources roles. After leaving Firestone, Larry continued to make an impact in HR and recruiting across several companies before launching his own recruiting practice. He concluded his career as Vice President with Dawson Consulting Group in Houston, helping countless individuals navigate career transitions with wisdom and compassion. Larry was married to the love of his life, Linda Lee Burton, for 58 years. Together for 60 years, their marriage was a beautiful example of love, commitment, friendship, and unwavering support. They built a life full of devotion, travel, and family traditions particularly their cherished Thanksgiving gatherings at the Burton family ranch in Alvarado, Texas, where Larry could often be found around the fire pit, sharing stories, sipping a glass of wine, and soaking in time with those he loved most. He was a devoted father to three sons: Patrick Burton (Ryan Lassen), Timothy Burton (Courtney Burton), and Christopher Burton (Laura Burton). He was a proud grandfather to Jake Burton, Kylee Burton, Carley Burton, Rachel Burton, Andee Burton, and Avery Burton-Lassen. Larry also leaves behind his sister Sara Fleming (Howard) and his brother Nick Burton (Gloria), along with extended family and dear friends. A man of deep Christian faith, Larry served in every church he attended whether as a deacon, usher, or committee member. But what he loved most was teaching Sunday School. He was a lifelong student and teacher of the Bible and found joy in spiritual conversations that brought him closer to understanding God. He was a man of prayer, and his faith guided every aspect of his life. Larry was a proud supporter of the University of Missouri, where his passion for his alma mater never waned. He held numerous leadership roles with the Mizzou Alumni Association and was a driving force in growing the Bayou City Tigers chapter in Houston. From student recruitment and scholarship initiatives to organizing career seminars and mentoring local alumni, Larry's impact was felt throughout the Mizzou community nationwide. He served as an Out-of-State Representative on the MAA Governing Board, and his tireless efforts helped foster connection and opportunity for hundreds of alumni. Larry was also an avid golfer always ready for a round with friends or family and never shy about pulling an extra ball out of his pocket for a mulligan. He loved to travel with Linda, exploring the U.S., Canada, and Europe and created memories that his family will cherish forever. Larry served his country in the U.S. Army Reserves and remained a proud and patriotic American throughout his life. Above all, Larry will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and friend. His kindness, wisdom, humor, generosity, and faith left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him. A celebration of life will be held on April 19, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Southmont Baptist Church, 2801 Pennsylvania Dr, Denton, TX 76205. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the ALS Association, Mizzou Traditions Fund, or Southmont Baptist Church.