Carol Lynn Jones Burton

Lynn graduated from Dumas High School in 1961 and pursued her calling in education at Amarillo College and the University of South Carolina before earning her master’s degree from Texas Tech University in 1972. For 32 years, she served as a passionate and highly skilled special education teacher and educational diagnostician. Throughout her career, she devoted herself to advocating for students with special needs, helping families navigate challenges, and recognizing the unique potential in every child she served.

Though she loved her Texas roots—especially the beauty of the Hill Country—Lynn spent her later years in Jacksonville, Florida. Wherever she lived, she built deep and lasting friendships. She was known as a fierce and loyal friend who loved life, travel, and meaningful time with those she cherished.

Lynn’s faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of her life. She lived intentionally to honor Him and desired above all else that her loved ones would come to know Him personally. She said of Jesus, “He is always right, always on time—I just need to let Him be in charge!” Lynn was especially devoted to her church family at Fruit Cove Baptist Church, where she was an active member of the “Golden Grannies” widows group.

Lynn was preceded in death by her husband Jonnie Burton; her son and daughter-in-law, Thomas Ray Jones and Daphne Jones; and her daughter, Chandra Jones.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Brenda Hayes and Robert Hayes; her grandchildren, William Hayes, Tobias Culala, and Makenna Parsons; and many dear friends and extended family members who will carry her memory forward, including her beloved “adopted” family at Fruit Cove Baptist Church, Drs. Brandon and Julie Greenwalt and their children, Aiden, Carson, and Analee.

Lynn will be remembered for her steadfast faith, unwavering loyalty, compassionate heart, and the lasting impact she made on generations of family, friends, and students.