In 1915 Ira and Roberta Smith Burton founded the Burton Family Cemetery on a small stretch of the family land under a towering Cedar Tree. It is believed the first burial was Lela E. Burton. In the 1960s, lightning struck the lone tree in the cemetery. It stands today blemished by the lightning, as a symbol of the strength and resilience of our family. The cemetery has had many Caretakers over the years, Algernon Burton Sr. , James Calvin King, all committed to grooming and preserving the hallowed ground that is the final resting place of our family. Under the Custodial Care of Katherine McBennett and her sons, Cortez Jr. and Carlos McBennett, James Calvin King, Algernon Burton Jr., and Wilma Burton Hunter, the cemetery has seen its most significant overhaul. You will observe the American Flag honoring our Military family members, a towering “Jesus” statue, and Concrete Benches to rest as we did after those many family walks on Sunday afternoon from Grandpa Ira’s house. At the 2019 Family Reunion, a special ceremony was held for the unveiling of the “BURTON CEMETERY,” as a tribute to its founders, Ira and Roberta Smith Burton. Young and old were filled with pride and respect for the Burton ancestors who paved the way, and taught us love, self-respect, and pride in the family name and history. Day or night travelers on Piney Grove Wilbon/Rawls Road can’t help but be drawn to the spotlighted flag, three white crosses, statue, and perfectly lined headstones. The marked headstones mostly placed by Mabel Harris Burton help family members identify and memorialize their loved ones for generations to come.