Billy Gene Burton, Sr., age 81, of Italy, passed away early Friday morning, October 14, 2011 in Italy. He was born March 14, 1930 in Whitney to Marion Leslie and Roxie (Gregory) Burton. He had been a longtime resident of Irving. Billy was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather.  He was very proud of his grandchildren and great grandchildren and loved having the family all together. Billy enjoyed hunting, fishing and golfing.

Survivors include his loving wife of 60 years, Rachel Burton of Italy; one son, Billy Gene Burton, Jr. and wife Julie of Rockwall; two daughters, Cindy Carter and husband Stephen and Janet Burton all of Italy; four grand-daughters, Cecilia Hinojosa and husband Jesse of Frisco, Stephanie Brandon and husband Jimmy, Cristie Enriquez and husband Eric and Mistie Saxon and husband Andy all of Italy; four great-grandchildren, Tinzley Enriquez, Liliana Hinojosa, Kylie Saxon and Jayden Saxon; three brothers, E. E. Burton of Lake Tawakoni, Aubrey Burton and Sue of Axtell, and M. L. Burton and wife Margie of Waxahachie; one sister, Betty Campbell of Waxahachie and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Velma Bullock.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 PM Saturday, October 15, 2011 at the Boze-Mitchell-McKibbin Chapel in Italy.

Funeral service will be 3PM Sunday, October 16, 2011 at the Boze-Mitchell-McKibbin Chapel in Italy with Brother Grady Cashion officiating.  Interment will follow at the Italy Cemetery.