COLUMBUS
Ralph “Woody” Burton, 89, passed away on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, at his residence. Born in Adair County, Kentucky, Woody was raised in Columbus, where he met his future wife, Mary Hoover Burton, who happened to be his next-door neighbor when he was just 11. He graduated from Columbus High School in the class of 1954 and went on to marry his next-door neighbor, Mary Hoover on September 21, 1955.
Woody retired from Cummins, and he and his wife were active members of the 7th Street Church of God. A true family man, he relished spending time with his children, Beverly, Tony, and Darryl. Woody was not just devoted to his family but was also a skilled horseshoe pitcher, holding the state champion title and participating in numerous national tournaments. He remained an avid IU fan throughout his life but also became a St. Louis Cardinals enthusiast along the way.
He took pleasure in attending his children’s sporting events, whether it was a softball game or a fishing trip. Woody also enjoyed music, singing, and playing the guitar for his family, often sharing intriguing stories from days gone by.
Woody is survived by his wife Mary Hoover Burton, children Beverly Crussel, Tony (Janie) Burton, and Darryl (Stacey Burton), grandchildren Angela (Fred) Lawson, Stacy (Bobby) Crider, Chip Burton, and Trent Burton, as well as great-grandchildren Jordan Burton, Drew Lawson, Emily Lawson, Sam Crider, Max Crider, Millie Crider, Maddie Burton, Layla Burton, and Audrey Lawson.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Curtis and Pollie Burton, and his brothers, Ray Burton, Earl Burton, Paul Burton, Sam Burton, and Cliff Burton.
Calling hours will be held on Sunday, December 17, 2023, at Jewell-Rittman Family Funeral between 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Funeral services will take place on Monday, December 18, 2023, at the funeral home, beginning at 10:00 a.m. with Pastor Jerry Ballard officiating. Burial will follow at Garland Brook Cemetery.
You are invited to view Woody’s video tribute, light a virtual candle, and send a message to the family via the internet. www.jewellrittman.com
Arrangements entrusted to Jewell-Rittman Family Funeral Home
