Florence A. Burton

Florence A. Burton was born on April 25, 1926, in Baltimore, Maryland to Rose Etta Diggs. On Monday, December 1, 2025, God in His infinite wisdom and tender mercy called her from labor to reward, welcoming her into eternal rest. From an early age, she accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and devoted her life to walking in faith, love, and obedience to His Word. Her life was a living testimony of God’s grace, and she exemplified kindness, humility, and unwavering strength throughout her journey. “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.” (Psalm 116:15)

A faithful servant of the Lord, Florence became a member of Faith Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Dr. Simon Williamson, where she served passionately in various ministries including the Simon Williamson Memorial Choir, Women’s Chorus, Sunday School, Gospel Chorus, Women’s League, Kitchen Committee, Baptist Training Union, President of the Family Life Committee and taught Vacation Bible School for many years. As a member of Faith Baptist for over 80 years, she gave her time, talents, and heart to the work of the Kingdom, consistently demonstrating the spirit of excellence and devotion. Whether through singing, teaching, encouraging, organizing, or simply showing love, she made an impact that will forever be remembered by her church family. She lived out Matthew 5:16 — letting her light shine before men — and that light continues to shine in every life she touched.

Beyond her dedication to ministry, Florence cherished a rich social and community life. She and her closest friends formed three beloved sisterhood groups—The Chummy Chums, The Chummerettes, and The Suavettes—where they traveled, played cards, shared countless laughs, and served as a joyful beacon of light in the community. Florence also loved to bowl and participated in several leagues over the years, building friendships and finding great joy in the game. She was an active member of the local senior center, where she delighted in creating a variety of arts and crafts that showcased her creativity and bright spirit. In addition to her many hobbies, Florence was a talented seamstress for many years and found great joy in sewing, often creating beautiful pieces with skill and care.

Professionally, Florence walked boldly in her calling as an educator. She was educated in Baltimore City Public Schools, graduating from Dunbar High School in 1943, and went on to pursue a degree in Education from Morgan State College in 1947. She served faithfully in the field of education for over 35 years, teaching at several schools within the Baltimore City Public School System before retiring from Walter P. Carter Elementary School. Florence especially loved teaching young children; the early grades were her joy. Teaching was not just her occupation; it was her ministry beyond the church walls. She poured knowledge, patience, compassion, and faith into every child placed in her care. Throughout her career, she was deeply respected by colleagues, parents, and students alike. Her classroom was a safe place, her words were life-giving, and her presence left a lasting imprint on generations. She embodied Proverbs 31:26 — “She opens her mouth with wisdom, and on her tongue is the law of kindness.”

Florence will be remembered for her servant’s heart, her gentle spirit, and her deep love for people. She was a source of encouragement and strength, always ready with a smile, a prayer, or a comforting word. Her faith sustained her, her love inspired others, and her legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives she touched — at church, in the community, and in the classroom.

Florence met and married George Washington Burton on June 15, 1951 and from this blessed union was born one son, George, and one daughter, Danielle. Her children were the joy of her life.

She is preceded in death by her husband, George, her son George, and sister, Hilda Brown. She leaves to cherish her memory her loving daughter, Danielle Lesane (husband Derrick), four grandchildren, four great grandchildren, her niece, Carolyn Brown, one great-niece, Tina Carrington, and godchildren Marlene Hicks, Tanya Davis, and Raymond Ellis, Jr. She was cared for over the years by several individuals who supported her in different seasons of her journey. Her former caregiver, Barbara Lesane, assisted her faithfully for many years. She was later lovingly supported by a close family friend turned caregiver, Ann Abigail Arthur. Most recently, in her final days, she received devoted care from Ms. Sherry, who often stayed with her for extended periods—including overnight—to ensure her needs were met and to give her daughter the opportunity to rest and attend to necessary responsibilities. The family is deeply grateful for each of these women and the care they provided. She leaves a host of family members, church family, former students, and friends who rejoice in knowing that she is now resting safely in the arms of Jesus. Though her earthly presence will be missed, we celebrate the promise of eternal life and look forward to the day when we shall meet her again.