Sammy Lee Burton

Mr. Sammie Lee Burton was born on November 14, 1958 in the Altheimer, Arkansas community. Mr. Burton was the first born child to the union of Lowrenzy and Erma Burton. Sammie grew up in the Altheimer community and attended the Altheimer Public Schools, where he excelled in math and graduated in 1976. He attended the University of Arkansas in Pine Bluff majoring in the subject of Accounting. 

Brother Burton placed his hope in Christ and was baptized at an early age. He worked dutifully in his church, the Mt Zion MBC, Altheimer, AR, throughout his youth, adoles­cence, and into early adulthood. He served on the Usher Board, sang in the Youth Choir and taught Sunday School for many years. He also worked closely with 
(deceased) Sister Lillian Fowler in church youth activities.

 
Brother Sammie ventured off the straight and narrow path for a season. The Lord used his experiences from that season to place him on an upward journey that led to him impacting many lives as a Drug and Alcohol Counselor. In addition to serving as mentor and counselor for well over a decade, Sammie also managed the Second Chance Alcohol and Drug Recovery Center located in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. Further, he served as guest speaker at various centers throughout Jefferson and adjoining Arkansas counties, encouraging fellow center members in their journey to living a clean life. Mr. Burton's love for those trapped within the grip of addiction and his diligent labor with them as they overcame the addictions, will never be forgotten. Sammie heard The Lord call him home on Friday evening, and he simply passed the torch. 

Sam passed away quietly on the evening of Friday 7 August 2020 while sitting in his favorite recliner in the home he shared with his companion, Ms Gail Dunlap. Theirs' was a beautiful story of enduring friendship. Sam's health had declined in recent years, and Gail was the one constant source of dependable love and care. Gail loved in a plethora of good deeds while caring for Sam to include assisting him with managing the Recovery Center. 

Brother Burton is survived by his companion and friend, Gail Dunlap of Altheimer, Arkansas; a step-son, Anthony Love of Altheimer, Arkansas; three sisters, Delores Walker of Memphis, TN, Mary Shelton (Carlon) of Irving, TX, and Patricia Burton of Killeen, TX; four nephews, three nieces, five grandnephews, two grandnieces and a host of cousins and friends. He is also survived by his loving family at the Second Chance Recovery Center. 

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