02/07/2026
J.B. Burton, 87, of Stanford, KY, passed away at home on Thursday, February 5, 2026. Born on January 6, 1939, in Nancy, KY, to the late Delbert Burton and Rosa Baker Burton. He was the widower of the late Aline Hazlett Burton.
Having been a faithful member of Stanford Baptist Church for over six decades, he leaves behind a legacy of faith and dedication. His life was one of tireless work, a commitment to excellence, and a steadfast love for his family and community.
J.B. was a devoted farmer throughout his life, taking great pride in raising Hereford cattle and growing to***co. His dedication to his work was evident—especially when he would turn the tractor around to fix a missed plant, teaching his children about faith, character, and doing things the right way. He also took great pride in working alongside the late Dr. Oliver, a veterinarian, for over 50 years.
His dedication extended beyond farming through his long-standing service as a member of the Lincoln County Fair and Horse Show Board, the Lincoln County Cattlemen’s Association, and the Tennessee Walking Horse Association. Despite his many responsibilities, J.B. always found time to participate in the historic Lincoln County Relay for Life Tractor Ride, honoring his two sons who bravely battled cancer.
He was never the loudest person in the room, yet when he spoke, people respected and listened to what he had to say. His actions were louder than words could ever strive to be. J.B. walked in faith, choosing the path of humility, and sought to carry light into a world still learning to see.
Survivors include three daughters, Debbie L. Wilson (Stacy) of Hustonville, KY, Jennifer R. Burton of Florida, and Linda G. Acey (Michael) of Perryville, KY; one brother, Herner Burton of Stanford; ten grandchildren, Tyler, Brittany, Mitchell, Amanda, Katie, Levi, R.J., Shelby, Wade, and Wyatt; thirteen great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Aline Burton; three sons, J.B. Burton, Jr. (infant), Rod G. Burton, and John D. Burton; two brothers, Glen Burton and Bobby Joe Burton; and one great-grandson, Porter Wayne.
A one-day service will be held Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at Spurlin Funeral Home in Stanford, KY. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with the funeral service beginning at 1:00 p.m., officiated by Bro. Max Hester. Burial will follow at Buffalo Springs Cemetery in Stanford.
Active Pallbearers are Stacy Wilson, Tyler Dunaway, Michael Acey, Wade Acey, Wyatt Acey, Bo Gander and Boyd Coleman.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made in J.B.’s memory to Kentucky Children’s Hospital for Cuddle Cots. Checks may be made payable to Kentucky Children’s Hospital and mailed to Spurlin Funeral Home, 411 West Main St., Stanford, KY 40484.
The following story was found tucked inside J.B.’s Bible and is shared by his daughters as a testament of how he strived to live his life.
This is an example of how people test the faithful. Several years ago a preacher moved to Houston, Texas. Some weeks after he arrived, he had an occasion to ride the bus from his home to the downtown area. When he sat down, he discovered that the driver had accidentally given him a quarter too much change. As he considered what to do, he thought to himself, you better give the quarter back. It would be wrong to keep it. Then he thought, “oh”, forget it, it’s only a quarter. Who would worry about this little amount? Anyway, the bus company already gets too much fare; they will never miss it. Accept it as a gift from God and keep quiet.” When his stop came, he paused momentarily at the door, then he handed the quarter to the driver and said, “Here, you gave me too much change”. The driver with a smile, replied, “Aren’t you the new preacher in town? I have been thinking lately about going to worship somewhere. I just wanted to see what you would do, if I gave you too much change.” When my friend stepped off the bus, he literally grabbed the nearest light pole, and held on, and said, “O God”, I almost sold your Son for a quarter”. Our lives are the only Bible some people will ever read.
