John Charles Burton

John Charles Burton

1949 ~ 2026

John Charles Burton passed away peacefully on May 25, 2026, at the age of 76, surrounded by those he loved.

Born on June 14, 1949, in Provo, Utah, to Alma Pexton Burton and Clea Rich Morgan, John grew up with a deep appreciation for education, faith, and service. He carried those values throughout his life and passed them on to his family and community.

He married Gwendolyn Lenise Banry on January 14, 1976, in the Salt Lake Temple. Together, they built a life centered on the gospel of Jesus Christ, family, learning, and devotedly raising their children, whom they love dearly.

John dedicated his professional life to education and leadership. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, a master’s degree in Curriculum Development, and an Educational Specialist degree in Administration from Brigham Young University. His career spanned four decades, during which he served as a teacher, principal, and Supervisor of Elementary Schools. He later continued mentoring future educators as a Secondary Field Coordinator at Utah Valley University.

John was deeply committed to his community. He coached all of his children in sports, served in a variety of community roles—including as president of the Alpine School District Board of Education—and supported programs that strengthened families and schools. He believed in showing up—on time or early—and in the quiet power of small, consistent acts that make a lasting difference in people’s lives.

His faith in Jesus Christ was the anchor of his life. As a young man, John served a full-time mission to Austria, an experience he cherished throughout his life. He continued to serve faithfully in many callings in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including as bishop of the American Fork 20th Ward, an institute instructor alongside Gwen for nine wonderful years, a Gospel Doctrine teacher, and most recently as a docent at the Church History Museum. He loved teaching the gospel and helping others come to know the Savior.

He is survived by his wife, Gwen; his five children, Jason, Rachael, Bradley (Krisann), Nathan (Angela), and Stephen (Jessica); 13 grandchildren; and many others who blessed and were blessed by his life.

Funeral services for John will be held Monday, June 8, at 10:00 a.m. at the American Fork East Stake Center Chapel located at, 825 East 500 North, American Fork, Utah 84003. A viewing for friends and family will be held the preceding evening, Sunday, June 7, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at the same location. Interment will be in the American Fork City Cemetery.

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