Rev. Anthony Lavell Burton Sr.

Reverend Anthony “Big Daddy” Burton Sr., was born February 1,1955 in Memphis, Tn., to the late Maurice and Lillie B. Burton. Anthony went home to be with the Lord on his birthday Monday, February 1, 2021. Pastor Burton loved the Lord; he loved his family; he loved people, and he loved life. This foundation of love was built from childhood by his parents and 9 siblings. At the age of 11 he gave his life to Christ and was baptized at Mt. Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church in Memphis, Tn., under the leadership of Rev. A.C. Jackson. Tony graduated from Mitchell Road High School as “Salutatorian” of his class in 1973. He went on to attend The University of Tennessee, and The University of Southern California, where he earned a degree in engineering. From there he would go on to live a life of service to God and to others. In 1976 he enlisted into the Air Force. He would spend the next 11 years achieving the rank of Captain he also earned several awards and honors including the Air Force Accommodation medal for outstanding and exemplary service. In 1978 he began an amateur boxing career which lead to a life long love of the sport. He rose through the amateur ranks and won Golden Gloves and Armed Forces Championships. He was also a member of the U.S.A Boxing team and had a semifinal finish in the US Olympic trials. His boxing career was highlighted by a sparing match that ended with a knock out of the heavy weight champ John Tate. In 1982 while stationed in Bossier City, LA he met and married the love of his life, his “baby”, Bonnie Collins. Together they raised 4 children. They remained together for the next 39 years until his departure to be with the Lord. Their union also marked a renewed dedication to the Lord and ministry. Pastor Burton became an active member of Second Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Shreveport, LA and served in various leadership capacities. In 1986, after being stationed in Germany for the last 3 years, God moved him to confess a call to the preaching ministry. After returning to Memphis and leaving the military, he would enroll in the Memphis Theological Seminary. In 1991, he was ordained for ministry at Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church in Memphis, TN., under the leadership of Rev. F.J. Harris, Sr. By 1995, he had received his Master’s of Divinity degree and God had prepared him for a second life of service through pastoring and teaching. Rev. Burton loved serving God’s people and caring for their various needs. He was their Shephard placed here by God’s divine order.

Rev. Anthony Lavell Burton Sr.

February 1, 1955 - February 1, 2021