Retta Jean Burton

Retta Jean Burton, of Williamsburg, VA, went to be with the Lord December 11, 2024 at the age of 95. She was born August 21,1929 in Meridian, ID, to the late Emery A. and Gladys M. Vassar Corn. She married her love, Garland C. Burton, Jr. on December 17, 1954 in Alexandria, VA.

Mom was a graduate of Middleton High School and attended Bob Jones University. She received her Nursing degree from Saint Luke’s School of Nursing, worked at several hospitals and retired from Eastern State Hospital in 1987 after 20 years as a Registered Nurse. Retirement was enjoyed by spending time with the children, grandchildren, working in her yard, growing luffa and crocheting. Her handmade, intricate doilies were often given as gifts. Over the years, mom loved her fur-babies that kept her company and were like children to her.

Mom was fondly known to many as “Mema” and “Granny with the hat.” The last years of her life her memory faded but she was always consistent with how she expressed her thoughts and feelings. Singing hymns brought her joy even when she couldn’t remember much else.

Retta was preceded in death by her parents, husband, sisters, Lucille Lepel, June Burke, daughter, Garla Didier, son and daughter-in-law, Garland C (G.C.) III and Jan Burton. She is survived by her children, Gary E. Burton (Joyce), Melanie B. Hood and Lisa A. Burton; grandchildren, Virginia Burton (James), Scott Didier (Mary), Daniel Didier (Meg), Aaron Hood (Megan), Nicole Zasimowich (Bryan), Ashley Richardson, Garland C. Burton IV (Tabitha), Margaret Beamon (Kevin), Ryan Burton, Nicholas Burton and Spencer Burton; 18 great-grandchildren and 8 great-great-grandchildren; brother, Larry E. Corn (Sandra) and a host of nieces and nephews.

If mom could pass on any last words, they would be that she would want you to worship the Lord Jesus Christ, believe that He died for your sins and would rejoice in the fact that she will see you again.

A life celebration will be held Saturday, December 21, 1:30 pm, at Nelsen Funeral Home, 3785 Strawberry Plains Rd., Williamsburg. Burial will follow at Williamsburg Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Retta Jean’s memory may be made to the Heritage Humane Society or to a favorite charity of your choice.