Deacon Henry Lewis Burton

With deep love and heartfelt remembrance, we celebrate the life, legacy, and love of Henry Lewis Burton, affectionately known to all as “Uncle Bo.” Henry was born on January 5, 1949, in Lucy, Tennessee, and was called home to rest on February 8, 2026, at his home in Benton Harbor, Michigan, at the age of 77. Henry transitioned peacefully of natural causes, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a legacy rooted in family, faith, and unwavering strength.

Henry’s life was one marked by resilience and purpose. After being born in Tennessee, he later moved to Memphis, and eventually made his way to Coloma, Michigan, where he grew up and attended Coloma schools. He built his life through hard work and dedication, becoming a licensed mechanic and a commercial truck driver, a career he proudly carried for 34 years. Henry retired from Towne & Air Freight in South Bend, Indiana, leaving behind a reputation of dependability and excellence.

For more than five decades, Henry was a pillar not only in his family but also in the neighborhood where he lived for 54 years. He was the kind of man whose presence was felt—steady, strong, and full of wisdom. Henry had a heart for service and faith, serving as a Deacon, Trustee, and devoted church member. He was known for his love of worship, his commitment to his church family, and for being the “ad-lib king,” always bringing joy and spirit wherever he went.

Henry was a true family man. He was married to his beloved wife, Jane Marie (White) Burton, for an incredible 54½ years. Their marriage was a testimony of love, partnership, and endurance. Together, they built a family that was Henry’s greatest pride.

Henry is lovingly survived by his wife, Jane Marie Burton, and his children: Alida McCall, Pammy (Carl) Broyles, and Sheldon Brooks. He also leaves to cherish his memory his grandchildren: Parresh (Briana) Bland, Jaylin Ramsey, and Jeliah Ramsey.

He is also survived by his siblings: Willie Thomas Burton Sr.(Josephine), Annie Lee Dixon, Mary Jane Burton, Shirley Ruth Slater, Catherine Burton, Margaretta, and Cornell Burton Sr (Pearly).

Henry leaves behind many cherished loved ones, including his sister-in-laws Rubea Perry (Georgia) and Ramona White (Virginia), as well as nieces and nephews: Jennifer (Robert) Amako, Wavey (Leonard) Thompson, Richard (Mindy) Burton, and Carleton Brooks I, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and lifelong friends.

Henry was preceded in death by his parents, Tracy Burton Sr. and Willie Mae Burton, his grandparents Esther Lee and Howard Denton, and five of his siblings: Tracy Burton Jr., Bertha Mae Jackson, David Louis Burton, Charlie Burton, and Howard Burton.

To know Henry was to know someone who would help you without hesitation. He was caring, honest, and unafraid to speak his mind—always with purpose and love. With his playful spirit and natural sense of humor, he was known as a jokester who brought laughter to family gatherings and joy to everyday moments. Henry enjoyed cigars, working on vehicles, and especially driving his semis—things that brought him peace and happiness. One of his most memorable sayings was, “If you do something wrong, own it,” and that statement reflected the kind of man he truly was—direct, accountable, and full of integrity.

Henry’s life was a reflection of service and love. He mentored many of his young nieces and nephews and left behind a powerful legacy—one that modeled what it means to be a man of character, a devoted father, and a faithful servant.

He will be deeply missed by many, including his special friends Otis Sr. and Bertha King, whose friendship remained dear to him throughout the years.

Henry’s spirit can still be heard in the music he loved and the words that carried meaning to him, including reminders like:
“Before you start to complain, count up your blessings—you’ll be amazed.”

Though our hearts mourn his passing, we rejoice in knowing his life was full, rich, and meaningful. Henry “Uncle Bo” Burton leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, faith, and family that will live on through every life he touched.

Rest well, Uncle Bo. You have earned your crown.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Deacon Henry Lewis Burton, please visit our floral store.