John Garland "Johnny" Burton, Jr.

John Garland Burton, Jr., affectionately known as “Johnny”, entered into rest suddenly on Tuesday, January 16, 2024. A lifelong resident of Elberton, he was 62 years old. 

The oldest of two boys, Johnny was born on January 11, 1962, to John Garland Burton, Sr. and Geraldine “Jerri” Mills Burton, both of whom preceded him in death. He was a 1980 graduate of Elbert County High School. He enjoyed playing football during school and racing cars until his accident in 1988. Johnny’s parents taught him the importance of hard work at a young age, and this followed him throughout his life. Johnny worked at Turner Concrete Company, Dixie Granite Company, and Martin-Poole Funeral Home; however, his most notable career has been at the family business, Burton Monument Company, a place he loved dearly. He support Janet in her endeavors at Burton Quarter Horses where she has taught generations of Elbertonians equestrian sports for many years. 

Johnny was a member and Past Master of Philomathea Masonic Lodge #25 and a member of Yaarab Shrine Temple. He was a lifelong member of Eliam United Methodist Church and attended The Mission Church. Johnny has been a member of the Elbert County Saddle Club since its inception, serving as announcer during most events, and was a member of Elberton Granite Association. He was a former member of Centerville Volunteer Fire Department and former President of the Elbert County Little League where he served as an umpire and coached football. Johnny served for 13 years as District Director for the National Barrel Horse Association’s District 2. 

Most important to Johnny was his family. “Papa”, as he was affectionately called, loved them all dearly and was always there to support them in any endeavor they were participating in. He enjoyed having the entire family gathered and never missed an opportunity to have family dinner night or to simply share how much he loved them. Sunday afternoons were for lounging around, and you could always find Papa in his recliner, watching NCIS, Law & Order, or football. He enjoyed riding horses as long as his health permitted and spending time at the lake. Johnny had a heart of gold, and was always willing to help others in need but never wanted recognition for it. His generous and caring spirit will live through his family forever.  

Surviving are his wife of 23 years, Janet Teresa Adams Burton; sons: John Bradley “Brad” Burton and his wife Julie and James Blakley “Blake” Burton; brother, Rick and Christy Burton; and granddaughters: Liberty, Cadance, Isabella, Blakely, and Ruby Grace

The family is at the residence on Hartwell Highway in Elberton and will receive friends on Saturday, January 20, from 3:00-5:00p.m. at Berry Funeral Home. 

Funeral services celebrating Johnny’s life will be held on Sunday, January 21, at 2:00p.m. at First Methodist Church of Elberton with the Rev. Greg Jordan and Mrs. Lavera Harper officiating. Entombment will follow in the Burton Family Mausoleum at Elberton’s Historic Elmhurst Cemetery with masonic rites. 

Pallbearers will include Chuck Almond, Jim Amburgey, Allen McCannon, Walter Mills, Ryan Albertson, and Randy Smith. Honorary pallbearers will include the staff of Burton Monument Company. 

Flowers are accepted. Should one desire to make a monetary donation in Johnny’s memory, please include one of the following charities that was special to Johnny: Friends Helping Friends Club, Inc., to assist the special needs children of Elbert County, 1027 Micliff Drive, Elberton, GA 30635, Elbert County Saddle Club, c/o Ryan Albertson, 2596 Hulmes Chapel Road, Elberton, GA 30635, or to Shriners Children’s Hospital, 950 W. Faris Road, Greenville, SC 29605.

Those wishing may sign the online guestbook at berryfh.com. 

Berry Funeral Home & Crematory of Elberton is respectfully in charge of arrangement for John Garland “Johnny” Burton, Jr.