Riley Park Burton

Mrs. Riley Park Burton, age 102, of Salisbury went peacefully into the arms of our Lord and Savior on Friday, September 17, 2021 at Trinity Oaks in Salisbury. Riley was born April 23, 1919, and was the daughter of the late John Boyden (JB) Park and Pearl Trexler Park. In addition to her parents and her husband Roper, Mrs. Burton was preceded in death by her siblings and their spouses.

Riley was employed by BellSouth for 36 years. At the early age of 14, she began playing the piano at Organ Lutheran Church and continued for over 20 years. Riley later went to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church where she continued as the organist for 24 years. She had a deep love for worshiping her Savior through sacred music. When Riley and her husband moved to Trinity Oaks Health and Rehab in 2002, she became the musician “in residence” and was willing to play whenever needed. She continued to play for Sunday worship and special services as long as she was able.

Riley was known as an encourager to other residents, often visiting those she knew from the community at large. She was an active member of the Telephone Pioneers of America and a Life Member of the Southern Seminary Auxiliary. She contributed over 20,000 hours of volunteer services at Trinity Oaks Health and Rehab.

Riley married the late Allen “Roper” Burton June 20, 1940. They shared a wonderful partnership and deep relationship until his death October 11, 2011. Riley and Roper shared a love of being outdoors in their gardens. Raising a large vegetable garden each year not only allowed them to can and preserve tomatoes, pickles, soup, green beans, but they always had plenty to share. Iris, daffodils and zinnias not only brightened their yard, but could be found in cut arrangements in the homes of friends and neighbors.

Riley and Roper were active in church life over the years at St. Paul’s and Organ Lutheran churches. In addition to being the organist, Riley served on the Music and Worship Committee, while Roper was a member of councils and served on the Property Committee.

Those left to cherish her memory are a number of nieces and nephews along with their families.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the administration and staff of Trinity Oaks Health and Rehab for the care and love shown to Riley over the years.

The Service of Celebration of Life and remembrance of Riley Burton will be held at Organ Lutheran Church on Thursday, September 23, 2021, at 4:30 PM. The Reverend Thomas W. Corbell will officiate. Visitation will immediately follow the Committal Service in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested you kindly remember Riley with memorials in her honor to either of the following: Organ Lutheran Church, the Old Church Steeple Fund, 1515 Organ Church Rd, Salisbury, NC 28146; St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 205 St. Paul’s Church Rd, 28146; Trinity Oaks Health and Rehab Center, 820 Klumac Rd., Salisbury, NC, 28144. Linn-Honeycutt Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family of Mrs. Burton.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared for the family at www.linn-honeycutt.com.