John David Burton , 87, of rural Columbia City, died peacefully in the company of family at 10:10 p.m. on Friday, March 6, 2026, at his home.

Born on September 30, 1938, in Eolia, Kentucky, he was a son of the late Ira Rufus Burton and Minnie Belle (Bowman) Burton.  Growing up in Eolia, he completed Parsons Elementary School and attended Eolia High School.

Moving to Whitley County in 1957, he met and married Joyce E. Sheckler on July 5, 1958.  The couple has always made their home in rural Columbia City, raising four sons.

He began his career in the construction trade with D&C Construction of South Whitley and J.B. Home Improvements.  Later, he worked for Holmes Lumber Company, Columbia City, where he had over 30 years of service.

Enjoying the outdoors, he liked to hunt, fish, and camp whenever possible.  He was talented at playing horseshoes and billiards and always enjoyed a good card game.  At home, he would play the guitar and sing his favorite songs.

Surviving are his wife of 67 years, Joyce; sons, Johnny (Karen) Burton of Larwill, Gary (Jody) Burton, Steve (Lisa) Burton, and Richard Burton, all of Columbia City; five grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and a sister, Elsie Sturgill of Eolia, KY.

He was preceded in death by brothers, Winston and William Burton; and sisters, Anna Mae Mullins, Bernice Gentry, and Alice Harshbarger.

Visitation is from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday (Mar 12th) at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.  The funeral service is at 10 a.m. Friday (Mar 13th) at the funeral home with burial to follow at the Stough cemetery.

Memorials in John's honor are to Stillwater Hospice.