Annette Burton

Annette M. Burton: A Tapestry of Compassion, Leadership, and Faith In the woven narrative of Annette Burton's life, each thread tells a story of compassion, leadership, and unwavering faith. From her roots in Chester, Pennsylvania, Annette emerged as a figure of enduring strength and grace, leaving a legacy that will resonate through generations. Born on December 13, 1939, to the late Marion Cannon and Jacob Shavers. Annette was the cornerstone of her family, a beacon of warmth in the community, and a guiding light in the Kingdom. Her home was always filled with love and laughter, especially during the large Thanksgiving gatherings she hosted, which became a cherished tradition echoing her own grandmother's legacy. Her role as a matriarch was only part of her story. Before she shaped minds in academia or walked the halls of local government, Annette made significant strides for the women of Chester. As a director of the Chester YWCA, she was a champion for women’s empowerment, providing a lifeline to those in need and connecting them with crucial resources. This chapter of her life laid the groundwork for her enduring impact, illustrating her natural leadership and her deep-seated belief in lifting others up. Annette’s journey took a transformative turn when she took up the mantle and founded the first campus of Delaware County Community College in Chester Pennsylvania. Here, she was not just an Administrator but a Pillar Of Hope, believing fiercely in the power of education to open doors. Under her stewardship, countless students found their paths, inspired by her resolve and her vision. Annette Loved The City Of Chester and set out to change and make a difference for her hometown. She not only ran for office in November 1991 and won a seat on Chester’s City Council where she made as much of a change she could and set the narrative that “You can do anything you set out to do if you put your mind to it“ -a phrase she often stated to her children and young folks alike-, but additionally opened her home to a plethora children of the surrounding area’s foster care system to grant them the opportunity to know what true guidance looked and felt like. Yet, Annette's story cannot be fully told without honoring her spiritual journey. A devout Christian since childhood, her faith was her foundation. In her later years, she answered a higher call, becoming an Ordained Minister. This new chapter allowed her to blend her nurturing instinct with her spiritual passion, guiding many to find their faith and providing comfort and counsel to those in need. In her final days Annette departed her earthly residence to enter her forever heavenly mansion. God summoned her on Saturday April 6, 2024, where she transitioned peacefully at her daughter and son in law Crystal and Woodie’s home in Texas along with her 2 daughters Linda, Ruth and oldest grandson Sam by her bedside. As we approach the celebration of Annette Burton’s life, we recall a woman of extraordinary character, whose life was a mosaic of service, education, and faith. Her legacy is not just in the achievements that earned her public accolades but in the quiet moments of guidance, support, and unconditional love she offered to all who knew her. Join us as we honor a truly remarkable life at her Celebration of Life service. Annette Burton’s legacy will continue to inspire, a narrative of a life beautifully lived and lovingly remembered.

Annette Burton

December 13, 1939 - April 6, 2024