Howard James Burton

Howard James Burton, 78, of Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 18, 2026, following a brief illness. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Howard was the son of the late George and Rita Burton. He spent many years in the Severna Park area of Maryland before relocating to Litchfield Beach, South Carolina, in 1994. Howard proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1967 to 1970 during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he attended the University of Baltimore, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting, and later received his Master’s degree from Georgetown University. He began his professional career in banking in Annapolis, Maryland, where he served as a Vice President. In 1975, Howard transitioned into real estate and became a highly successful Realtor with Long & Foster Real Estate in Maryland. After moving to South Carolina in 1994, he continued his real estate career with Chicora Real Estate in Myrtle Beach. In 1998, he joined Bank of America in the Mortgage Loan Department, where he again rose to the position of Vice President. Howard retired in 2010. He was preceded in death by his brother, George Burton Jr., and his sister, Patricia Burton Backhaus. Howard is survived by his beloved wife of 20 years, Emily Wiley Burton; his son, James Howard Burton and wife, Anri; his daughter, Lauren Victoria Jackson; his faithful furry companion, Sully; and his cherished grand fur babies. Howard was a devoted member of All Saints Anglican Church in Pawleys Island. He was a proud supporter of the Washington Redskins and Clemson Tigers. He had a deep interest in politics and was a steadfast Republican. For over twenty years, he treasured annual trips to a cabin in Virginia with his closest friends. He loved life on the water, especially spending time on a boat and crabbing. He enjoyed Gin Bloody Marys, Jack Daniel’s, Marlboro Lights, and was a lifelong fan of the band Little Feat. Above all, Howard loved people. He cherished his family, friends, neighbors, and beloved dogs. He had an infectious laugh, a generous spirit, and a remarkable ability to make others smile. His warmth, humor, and joy for life touched everyone fortunate enough to know him, and his memory will continue to bring smiles to those he leaves behind. A memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m. at Goldfinch Funeral Home Chapel in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. A Celebration of Life will follow at 5:00 p.m. at Inlet Prohibition Company in Murrells Inlet. Howard will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Howard’s favorite foundation, Tunnel to Towers. They help to serve veterans and their families, 9/11 victims and help to eradicate veteran homelessness.

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Howard James Burton

October 31, 1947 - June 18, 2026