William Edward Burton

William Edward Burton, age 86, of Rand, left to be with the Lord on January 29, 2025. Known to many as Bazemore, William was raised in Dry Branch, WV, and graduated with the East Bank High School class of 1956. He married Delores Morris, from Coalburg, WV, and together they recently celebrated their 63rd wedding anniversary.

William dedicated seven years of his career to both the Charleston Gazette and Nabisco in Charleston, ultimately retiring after 20 years at Monsanto in Nitro, WV. He loved fishing, hunting, boating, camping, and watching sports and game shows on TV. He was devoted to supporting children in the community, and participated in fundraising for the Rand Caring Education Center managed by his wife for an after-school program.

William cherished his grandkids, great-grandkids, great nieces, and great nephews. If you knew him you would know he loved sweets. He looked forward to the boxes from his sister Ada in Columbus, which contained all the old school candy treasures. Over the years, he found relaxation and enjoyment on his porch overlooking the Kanawha River, watching boats and providing updates on turnpike traffic, while spending time with family and friends who visited to enjoy the view with him and listen to his stories.

William was preceded in death by his parents, Mimie and Walter Bazemore, and Joseph Brown seven siblings—Walter Brown, Marion Burton, Walter Bazemore, Patricia Powell, Mary Miller, Nora Lee, and Gracie Bazemore—and three children, Cheryl Burton, Deborah Moore, and Michael Butler, and his beloved granddaughter, Melanie Burton.

He is survived by his wife, Delores; four siblings—Ace Brown, Ada Draughon, Frankie Bazemore, and Bernice Brown; three children, Sherry Burton of NC, Sharon (Jon) Bailey of Elizabeth, WV, and Virginia Butler-Askew (Brian) of South Charleston; along with eight grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, three great great-grandchildren and numerous nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the CAMC Heart Clinic and Palliative Care Center for their exceptional care and support during this time.

William will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. In accordance with his wishes, there will not be a formal service. Family and friends will be received at the home.