Marsha Ilean Burton—known affectionately as "Bobby" to those closest to her—transitioned to be with the Lord. She passed away peacefully in her sleep on December 15, 2024.

Born on August 20, 1947, in Pasadena, California, to Ivory Mae Goudeau and Jimmy Paul Brooks, Marsha grew up surrounded by love. Her family later moved back to Port Arthur, Texas, where she graduated from Abraham Lincoln High School in 1966. Marsha had four sisters, Betty Lee Goudeaux, Pat Hughes, Marilyn Haynes, and Carolyn Samuel, and one brother, James Beckley.

Marsha's life was marked by her deep connections and enduring love. As a young girl in Port Arthur, she met Steve Burton. Years later, their paths crossed again, leading to their marriage in Las Vegas, Nevada, on January 14, 1970. Together, they built a life in California, raising their two children, Sylvanus and Tonia. Marsha worked at Alameda First National Bank as a data processing clerk, managing the computer room with skill and dedication until her retirement.

Known for her big heart and boundless generosity, Marsha eventually founded a business and nonprofit, "Bobby's Heavenly Creations." Through this organization, she catered events, conducted community outreach, and touched countless lives. In 2001, she and Steve returned to Baytown, Texas. By 2005, they had launched "Friends Feeding Friends," a community initiative that became a cherished tradition, feeding up to 1,500 people annually, including the sick and shut in. Marsha's passion for helping others extended to backpack drives for students, providing essentials for families in need, and countless other acts of kindness.

Marsha was also a faithful servant of the Lord, actively serving at Acts Full Gospel Church and the Landing Place (Oak/Ant). She gave whatever she had and offered it faithfully to the Lord, always putting others' needs before her own. Her unwavering dedication and service were a testament to her deep faith and love for God. Marsha was undoubtedly greeted by her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, with the words, "Well done, my good and faithful servant."

Even in adversity, Marsha's spirit remained unshaken. After her beloved Steve passed away in 2015 following an eight-month illness, Marsha relocated to California to live with her daughter and grandsons. Five years later, she returned to Texas, where her legacy of compassion was celebrated in the Baytown Sun and honored by the community she served so selflessly.

Marsha was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend to many. She is survived by her children, Sylvanus and Tonia; her five grandchildren, Sylvanus Burton II, Trevor Smith II (Maci), Morgan Burton, Tiara Smith, and Tre Smith; her great-granddaughter, Sienna Vretzos-Smith; her sisters, Betty, Marilyn, and Carolyn; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Steve, her sister Pat, and her brother James.

Marsha's love, kindness, and selflessness will forever be remembered by all who knew her. She leaves behind a community that will truly miss her radiant presence