Nelson Lynch Burton

Nelson Lynch Burton, was born on July 9, 1930, in Nashville, Tennessee, to the late Nelson Burton and Katrine Lynch Burton. He peacefully transitioned on January 16, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, strength, and deep love for his family and community.

Nelson was a proud Nashville native but later became a Memphis, Tennessee resident where he was an All-State high school athlete at Memphis Central High School, a testament to his discipline and competitive spirit, an accomplished student-athlete. He attended Vanderbilt University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in geology in 1951. A lifelong lover of the outdoors, Nelson enjoyed fishing, hunting, and sports, with duck hunting being his favorite pastime. He also raised and showed Quarter Horses and proudly maintained Seven Hills Farm for many years.

Nelson was a hardworking man who spent much of his career with Burton Construction Company, continuing to work until the age of 80. He had a passion for travel and was the first grandson of A.M. Burton, a distinction he carried with pride. A devoted supporter of Lipscomb High School and Lipscomb University, Nelson valued education and community involvement.

Family was at the heart of Nelson’s life. He was deeply involved in the lives of his grandchildren and great grandchildren, faithfully supporting them in all their activities and events. He was known for his strong presence, integrity, and what many affectionately described as a “John Wayne personality.”

Nelson was a faithful member of Antioch Church of Christ and later Brentwood Hills Church of Christ.

Nelson was preceded in death by his parents, Nelson Burton and Katrine Burton; his beloved wife of 65 years, Ann Ferguson Burton; and his sons, David Nelson Burton and Barry Ferguson Burton; siblings: A.M. Burton II and Jackie Burton Spain.

He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Beth (Lou) Burton Saggio, and his son, Stephen Michael Burton(Beth Banks); grandchildren Matt Burton, Daniel Burton, Shane (Chasidy) Burton, Sloan (Ginny) Burton, Grace Burton, Loden (Jacqueline) Burton, Ashley Saggio Potts (Richard “Chip”), Joseph Saggio (Lacey), and Michael Saggio; and great-grandchildren Ella Burton Haley, Eli Burton, Vivie Burton, Parker Burton, Aria Burton, Scarlett Burton, Everly Burton, Port Burton, Atticus Burton, Adelaide Burton, Selah Burton, Aurelia Saggio, Rhett Saggio, Rourke Saggio, Rien Potts, Henry Potts, Hunter Potts, and Baird Saggio; along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Nelson’s life was one of purpose, perseverance, and love, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.