“Some men build businesses. Some build communities. Some build families. Booker T. Burton Jr. built all three—and he did so with faith, honor, and love.”

On Thursday, July 2, 2026, Booker T. Burton Jr. peacefully entered eternal rest at his home, surrounded by the love of his devoted wife, Willia, and his beloved daughter, Cassema.

Born on January 8, 1941, in Elberton, Georgia, Booker was the cherished son of the late Booker T. Burton Sr. and Veola Smith Burton. Throughout his 85 years, he lived a life defined by faith, integrity, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to family and community.

Booker’s walk with Christ began early in life at Hunter’s Chapel A.M.E. Church, where he faithfully served as Sunday School Super intendent and in many other leadership roles. His faith was not simply something he professed—it guided every decision he made and every life he touched. He believed in serving God by serving others, and his church remained a cornerstone of his life.

Growing up on his family’s farm, Booker developed a remarkable work ethic while cultivating row crops and raising poultry. His dedication and excellence earned him numerous awards, but those who knew him best admired him most for his humility, discipline, and quiet strength.

A proud United States Army veteran, Booker served his country honorably before embarking on a distinguished entrepreneurial career. He became one of the first Black men to own four Sohio gas stations in Ohio, demonstrating both courage and vision during a time when such opportunities were rare. He later owned First Page Lounge and worked as a respected mortgage broker, helping families achieve the dream of homeownership.

It was at one of those Sohio gas stations that fate introduced Booker to the love of his life, Willia. What began as a chance meeting quickly blossomed into a love story that would span close to fifty years. Their connection was immediate—love at first sight—and together they built a marriage rooted in faith, mutual respect, unwavering devotion, and enduring friendship. Through life’s triumphs and challenges, they remained each other’s greatest source of strength, creating a legacy of love that will continue to inspire generations.

While Booker accomplished much in business and in service to his country, his greatest pride was always his family. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, a proud grandfather, a caring brother, and a trusted friend. His gentle wisdom, calming presence, and quiet encouragement will be missed by everyone he ever gave unsolicited advice to, which is everyone.  He led not with loud words, but through his consistent example of kindness, honor, and integrity.

Cherishing His Legacy

Booker’s memory will forever be treasured by his beloved wife of close to fifty years, Willia Burton; his devoted daughter, Cassema Burton; his cherished grandchildren, Melia Burton, Vei’shaun Orr, and Talia Burton, daughter of his beloved late son, Taliaferro Mark Burton.

He also leaves to cherish his memory his brothers, Mr. Carnell Burton of Cleveland, Ohio, and Mr. Ralph Burton of Shaker Heights, Ohio; his sisters, Mrs. Naomi Deloach of Athens, Georgia, Mrs. Nancy Jackson of Cleveland, Ohio, Mrs. Clara Bradford of Atlanta, Georgia, and Mrs. Jean Burton Moody (Jimmy) of Columbia, South Carolina; along with a host of brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, lifelong friends, and all whose lives were blessed by knowing him.

Preceding Him in Death

Booker was preceded in death by his parents, Booker T. Burton Sr. and Veola Smith Burton; his cherished son, Taliaferro Mark Burton; and his sisters, Willie Mae Tate, Tina Burton of Elberton, Georgia.

A Legacy That Lives On

Booker T. Burton Jr. leaves behind far more than memories. He leaves a legacy of faith that strengthened his church, courage that served his country, vision that opened doors for others, and a love that anchored his family for generations.

He taught us that success is measured not only by what we accomplish, but by the lives we uplift, the promises we keep, and the love we share.

Though our hearts are heavy, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a man deeply loved. His smile, wisdom, quiet strength, and steadfast faith will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25:23)