BURTON PRESENTS GIFT TO PANOLA COLLEGE
On May 27, 2008, Panola College became the recipient of a $264,500 gift from Mr. John Burton. Given in memory of his wife, Billie Jean, the funds will be applied to the general scholarship fund and used to provide financial support to students hoping to attend Panola College.
Billie Jean Burton, a native of Panola County, was born August 9, 1927 in Shreveport, Louisiana. She was the daughter of Arthur and Lillie Antee Hayes. She later lived in Tyler and McComb, MS. She married John W. Burton on Sept. 6. 1947, and they spent 54 years together. They had one son, John Thomas Burton.
Billie Jean received her Masters in Education from Stephen F, Austin State University and a Masters in Speech from the University of Southern Mississippi. She loved teaching and believed that everyone should have a good education. She retired in 1987 from teaching after a 42 year career.
Billie Jean enjoyed traveling and studying history. She was a member of Beta Sigma Phi, Eastern Star, Carthage Service League, and Central Baptist Church. She is still deeply missed by her husband and all those whose lives she touched.
Mr. John Burton, a native of Orange County, is a retiree of the Sun Oil Company. During his 32 year career, John gained experience in areas that varied from drilling to production. Mr. Burton and his family moved from Louisiana to Mississippi and Alabama before settling down in Texas.
John still enjoys traveling and is a member of the Central Baptist Church and the Carthage Rotary Club.
“I am deeply grateful for the faith Mr. Burton has in Panola College and his desire to help students,” said Dr. Gregory S. Powell, President of Panola College. Mr. Van Patterson, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement added, “The love and devotion that John demonstrated today is inspiring. He and Billie Jean planned this gift together, and today he fulfilled the dream they had to provide a helping hand to those less fortunate. The Burtons generosity will not soon be forgotten.”