Windom Joseph Burton

February 12, 1921 – June 15, 2024

Windom Joseph “W. J.” Burton was born in Brittany LA on February 12, 1921, and passed away at Fidelis White Road Assisted Living Saturday, June 15, 2024 at the age of 103.

He participated in the Civilian Conservation Corp before joining the United States Navy and serving on board the USS Enterprise CV-6 for 22 months during heavy combat action in the Pacific during World War II as an Aviation Metalsmith 1st Class. The Enterprise, known as “The Big E,” was involved in numerous battles at sea, and became the most combat-decorated ship of World War II. Windom received a Presidential Unit Citation for Valor, the United States Navy Unit Citation, the Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal with six Battle Stars, the Philippine Liberation Medal with two Battle Stars, the Navy Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal and the Honorable Discharge Pin. After checking with the Enterprise CV-6 Association, they believe Windom could have been, if not the oldest, then one of the oldest living survivors.

After active duty, Windom worked in the wood flooring industry before opening his own business, W. J. Burton Floors, which he owned and operated for 55 years. He loved cats, dogs, music, and although he never had lessons, he played both the harmonica and guitar by ear. He was a big fan of LSU football and attended many of their games when he was younger.

On May 7, 2013 on Military Family Day, Windom was honored by the Louisiana Senate with Senate Resolution No. 69, when the Senate extended its highest commendations to him for his brave service for his country during World War II, and for coming home after the conflict and successfully running his own business for more than 55 years.

At the age of 95, Windom received a standing ovation at the Soldier Salute during the LSU vs Ball State baseball game March 13, 2016, for his military service. On March 15, 2016, he was interviewed by the National World War II Museum in New Orleans, and his interview is stored in their archives.

Windom was much loved, and will be greatly missed by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He is survived by his children Carolyn Courtney of Prairieville, Cynthia (Bruce) Hughes and Dirk (Nancy Sue) Burton of Baton Rouge, grandchildren Rodney Durbin (Jennifer Davis) of Waynesville, NC, Shane (Yvette) Hughes of Belle Rose, Jeremy (Alyson) Hughes of Pensacola, Ashley (Amanda) Hughes of Acy, Clay Burton of Houston, and Jill Brakebill of Prairieville, great-grandchildren Seth and Kyle Hughes of Prairieville, Sarah Hughes of Belle Rose, Josie Hughes of St. Amant, Desirae Gardner of Baton Rouge, Julio Hughes of Pensacola, Quintin Wright Brakebill of Prairieville, Courtney Claire and Julia Sydney Brakebill of Baton Rouge. He is also survived by his brother, Guy Burton of St. Amant, and his sisters, Rose Braud of Gonzales and Faye Dagoberg of Prairieville, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Windom was predeceased by his loving wife of 67 years, Betty Richardson Burton, his childhood sweetheart and the love of his life, as well as his parents George and Odeal Burton, and his brothers George Thomas, John Clyde, Edwin Arthur and Alvin.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Fidelis White Road in Denham Springs, LA. Special thanks to the staff at Fidelis White Road including Alisha, Altonishia, Audrey, Dee, Jacklyn, Pam, and Quisha.

Visitation will be Saturday, June 22 at Ourso Funeral Home in Gonzales at 9:30 a.m. followed by the service at 11:00 a.m.