June O. Burton, excelled at everything
June O. Burton, 88, departed this life peacefully Saturday, March 12, 2022, in Wilmington. June was born Sept. 4, 1933, in Millsboro daughter to the late Eunice P. Harmon and late Travanian (Buddie) Wright. She had a half-sister, the late Derinda Morris; and a half-brother, Travis (Poo) Johnson. June grew up in Millsboro and believed there was no better place to live and raise a family.
She was affectionately known as “Bugs,” and attended the Nanticoke Indian School, where she completed schooling through the 8th grade. She subsequently left school, like many people of her heritage during that time, to help care for her family. She became a devoted housekeeper both inside and outside the Harmon household. She quickly learned the truth behind the saying “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger,” as she indeed became stronger.
Bugs worked for over 35 years at Atlantic Sands Hotel in Rehoboth Beach and worked her way from being a housekeeper to the supervisor of the entire Atlantic Sands cleaning staff. Additionally, she had the responsibility of maintaining and cleaning the homes of the Atlantic Sands’ owners, yes, she was that good! Bugs always worked hard and was known for her reliable work ethic. Even without a formal education, she was a problem solver who excelled at everything which included taking care of her loved ones. Bugs was a creative homemaker with a unique eye for decorating and unparalleled cooking skills. Bugs accepted Christ into her life and walked with Jesus as an active member of the Indian Mission United Methodist Church, and a lifelong member of the Nanticoke Indian Association. Her Native American name, given to her on June 9, 1990, was Lonesome Wolf.
Bugs married Harry “Clayie” Burton, the love of her life, June 3, 1954, in Salisbury, Md. During this time, Clayie was in the U.S. Army and served as a corporal during the Korean Conflict Era. They shared over 60 years of marriage and loved to travel together. They had notable adventures in Hawaii, on a cruise, in California, and in Vegas. She survived Clayie, who passed seven years ago.
From their marriage, they had two children: the late Venita Burton Taylor (Mike) of Rochester Hills, Mich., and H. Clay Burton IV (Debby) of Atlanta, Ga.; and two grandchildren: Jasmine K. Burton and Courtney J. Burton of Atlanta. June was known for her great sense of humor and for bringing people together. She will be deeply missed.
A viewing and visitation will be held from 3 to 6 p.m., Saturday, March 19, at Watson Funeral Home, 211 S. Washington St., Millsboro. Interment will be private at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established to benefit the Nanticoke Indian Association.
Electronic condolences via watsonfh.com.
