Dwight Langford Burton

Dwight L. Burton, 76, passed away on September 2, 2025, in Columbia, SC. Born in Harris County and raised in Killeen, Texas. They moved to Canada, where his family served on a missions farm. It was there that he discovered his lifelong love of the outdoors. Upon returning to Texas, he fell in love with archery—just one of many passions he pursued wholeheartedly.

Dwight went on to study criminal justice and proudly served as a police officer. Outside of work, he was a car enthusiast through and through— whether it was building model cars, cruising in his beloved Mustang or tuning in to NHRA drag racing.

His faith, music, laughter and dogs were constant threads in his life. Dwight sang bass and played multiple instruments (the harmonica, bass guitar and steel guitar) and was a prankster who never missed an opportunity to get a laugh. He and his siblings shared a special musical bond, often filling rooms with harmony and joy. His love for animals— especially his dogs—was another reminder of the big heart behind his humor.

Dwight is survived by his wife, Sharon Burton; his daughter, Celia Burton; his sons, Dwight Burton and John Burton; his stepson, Christopher Reed (and his wife, Sawyer Reed); his stepdaughter, Jennifer Reed; his grandchildren, Jude, Harrison and Theo; his sister, Jane Cabrera (and her husband James Cabrera Senior); and his brother, Les Burton. He is preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Gladys Burton.

To know Dwight was to know music, laughter and the occasional prank— and his family and friends will carry those joyful echoes in their hearts forever.

A celebration of Dwight’s life will be held at Calvary Chapel Columbia, SC on September 27th, 11am. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Calvary Chapel Columbia or the Alzheimer’s Association in his honor.