Elaine Burton-Melifonwu

The world was graced with the presence of Elaine Burton-Melifonwu, born on August 10,1960, in Woodson, Arkansas, to Emma Jean Burton and the late Artie Burton Jr. She was the fifth of nine children and peacefully transitioned to her heavenly home on February 10, 2025, at the age of 64.

Elaine triumphed in both life and death because of her unwavering faith in her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She professed her hope in Christ at an early age under the leadership of her late grandfather, Rev. James L. Withers, at Greater Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, where she served faithfully on the Usher Board. On March 13, 2005, she joined First Baptist Church Higgins under the leadership of Rev. Michael D. Payne, where she continued her service on the Usher Board and as an honorary member of the Beautification Committee.

Elaine graduated from Hall High School, Class of 1978, and earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. She later obtained a master’s degree from East Texas State University. She dedicated her career to serving others at the Arkansas Department of Children and Family Services, retiring in 2018 as a County Supervisor.

Elaine loved to shop (always on a budget) and spend quality time with her family. Her greatest joy was being with her son, daughter, and grandchildren—creating cherished memories through vacations with her sister Velvia and nieces Letrese’ and Olivia and pampering her beloved mother.

She was a second mother to all her nieces and nephews, always ready to spoil them with love. Elaine shared a special bond with her grandson Theo, who affectionately called her “GaeGa,” and with her granddaughters, who lovingly called her “GiGi.”

Elaine valued family connections deeply, spending countless hours in heartfelt conversations with her siblings. She was passionate about encouraging a personal relationship with God, instilling faith and hope in her children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews alike.

A devoted mother to Frederick (Sharol) Melifonwu and Mikia Snow Burton-Raglin, Elaine never missed an opportunity to check in with them daily, often calling just to say, “What’s up?”

Elaine’s generosity, compassion, and candid wisdom touched the hearts of everyone she met. She was greatly appreciated for her private talks, heartfelt advice, and genuine spirit.

Elaine was preceded in death by her father, Artie Burton Jr.; sisters, Betty and Annie Marie; brother Theodore; and grandparents, Rev. James L. and Ruby M. Withers, Artie Burton Sr. (Annie), and Linnie Burton.

She leaves to cherish her memory, children: Frederick (Sharol) Melifonwu and Mikia Snow Burton-Raglin; grandchildren: Arihanna, Aniyah, Theo, and Amari Reign; Mother Emma J. Burton; Sisters: Barbara Bohanon and Velvia Burton ;Brothers: Ivory Burton, Willie Burton (Deborah) and Artie Burton III; Five aunts, one uncle and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, church family, and friends who will forever hold her memory close.

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