It is with profound sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Gary Emery Burton, aged 65, on November 4, 2025, in Middlesex County, VA. Gary departed this life, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering support that touched the hearts of all who knew him.
Born on June 27, 1960, in Wakefield VA, to Garland Cole Burton Jr. and Retta Jean Burton. He grew up in Williamsburg, VA, but was a resident of Middlesex County for the last 33 years. Gary graduated from Lafayette High School in 1978. He went on to become a Master Electrician working for Colonial Electric, Harris Electric & Hamilton Electric. In 1998, he started his own business, Burton Electric, and was known for his hard work and dedication to every project he was working on.
Gary married the love of his life, Joyce Boarman-Burton, on September 3, 1992, a partnership the flourished over the last 33 years and exemplified the essence of true companionship.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Garland Cole Burton Jr. and Retta Jean Burton; his brother, Garland Cole Burton III; his sister, Garla B. Didier; his sister-in-law, Janette A. Burton; and his brother-in-law, Patrick M. Kearns.
Gary is survived by his spouse, Joyce Boarman-Burton; his two sons, Ryan E. Burton and Nicholas R. Burton; and his sisters, Melanie B. Hood and Lisa A. Burton. Additionally, he is survived by his sisters-in-law, Bev Bristow (Jimmy), Janet Anderson (Chris), Barbara Green-Kearns, Brenda Boarman-Spivey (Ronnie), and his mother-in-law, Peggy Boarman; as well as his “other girl”, Indy. Also, a numerous amount of nieces and nephews.
Gary cherished every opportunity to create lasting memories with his family & friends, whether it was embarking on boating trips, off-roading on ATVs & side by sides, or simply gathering around a bonfire sharing stories and laughter. He enjoyed working on cars with his sons. He was known for his outgoing nature and his straightforward approach to life, often bringing a refreshing honesty to every conversation. His zest for life was contagious.
The service to honor and celebrate Gary’s life will be held on Sunday, November 23, 2025, at 3 p.m. at Williamsburg Christian Church, located at 200 John Tyler Lane, Williamsburg, Virginia 23185. A reception will follow at The Williamsburg Moose Lodge, situated at 5429 Richmond Road, Williamsburg, Virginia 23188.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Gloucester-Mathews Humane Society in memory of Gary Burton.
Faulkner Funeral Homes, Bristow-Faulkner Chapel, Saluda, is assisting the family.
Williamsburg Christian Church
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