Stanley Bruce Burton, Sr. Obituary

Stanley "Bruce" Burton, Sr., age 85, of Memphis, Tennessee, passed away on January 9, 2026. He was preceded in death by his parents, David Paul Burton and Elaine Riggs Burton; his brothers, James "Jim" David Burton and Richard Louis Burton; and his son, Stanley "Bruce" Burton, Jr.

Bruce earned both a bachelor's degree and a master's degree from the University of Arkansas. An avid pilot, he founded Agri-Flight and Newport Aviation Service. He later established a building products distribution center in Memphis, Tennessee. Bruce was also an enthusiastic golfer and bird hunter who especially enjoyed the companionship of his hunting buddies and his beloved canines, Ralph and Buster.

He is survived by his wife, Betty Dianne Burton; his brother, Steven Michael Burton (Teresa); his daughter, Dr. Caroline Burton of Rochester, Minnesota; his stepson, Lt. Col. Steven Bowen "Bo" Bear (Cher), and their daughter, Grace, of Cabot, Arkansas; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He is also survived by his four-legged companion Colby.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (www.stjude.org) or the ASPCA (www.ASPCA.org).