Pastor Jimmie Edd Burton, 67, of Huntsville, Alabama, transitioned on December 27, 2023, at Huntsville Hospital surrounded by family.
He was born May 24, 1956, In Huntsville, Alabama, the son of late Lillian and Tommy Burton. He was the youngest of two siblings, the late Tommy (Delores) Burton, Jr., and Riley Burton. On November 3, 1974, he married Wilma Matthews, who survives.
He graduated from Butler High School in 1975. He worked and retired from Georgia Pacific after 25 years of service.
Pastor Burton committed his life to the Lord and ministry at an early age. He served under his uncle, Pastor Thomas Townsend doing street ministry and evangelism. As he ministered throughout Huntsville and the surrounding area, he witnessed many miracles and lives changed through the power of Jesus. Also, as a child, he established a home bible study for children and sponsored impoverished youth in third world countries.
As he matured, he served faithfully under Bishop Jerry Townsend as a Deacon, Musician, Armour Bearer, Youth Leader, Praise & Worship Leader, Janitor, and Minister. He was committed to the vision of this leadership until called to establish Compassion Ministries with his wife. His dedication to fostering a sense of community extended to organizing charitable events, outreach programs, and initiatives that touched the lives of the less fortunate.
He is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Wilma Matthews Burton, as well as his daughters Tamisha (Kwesi) Jackson of Hazel Green, AL and LeKeisha (Corey) Garner of Meridianville, AL; and five dearly loved grandchildren: Lillian Jackson, Hannah Garner, Kwesi Jackson II, Corey Garner II, and Chloe Jackson; Aunt Frances Sigmond and uncle Bishop Jerry (Elizabeth) Townsend of Huntsville, AL; his Compassion Ministries church family and a host of in-laws, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Funeral service will be 12:00 noon, Sunday, December 31, 2023, at the Apostolic True Temple (3000 Stringfield Road NW, Huntsville, AL 35810) with Bishop Jerry Townsend officiating. Interment will be in the Meadowlawn Garden of Peace. Pastor Burton will lie in repose one hour prior to funeral time.
The Burton family will receive guests from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Saturday, December 30, 2023, at the Royal Chapel of Memories.
Public viewing will be held from 12:00 noon until 6:00 p.m., Saturday, December 30, 2023, and 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m., Sunday, December 31, 2023, at the Royal Funeral Home.
