In recognition of Black History Month, the Courier News is shining the spotlight on some of the many African-Americans who have played a leading role in our community. A different individual will be featured in each edition of the newspaper during the month of February.
At the age of 34, the Rev. L.B. Burton said he received his spiritual calling to become a minister, and for 51 years, Burton has been the pastor at Progressive Missionary Baptist Church in Blytheville. Over that time period, Burton has obviously seen a lot of changes in Blytheville.
"I remember when there were about only two black workers in downtown," said Burton, a native of Tunica County, Miss. "Black people couldn't use the bathrooms in many of the places downtown."
One of Burton's fondest memories was when he and five other ministers from the area traveled to Atlanta to attend Dr. Martin Luther King's funeral in 1968.
"It was a sad day but a happy day," said Burton, who was one of an estimated 500,000 people to attend the funeral. "The day turned into a celebration of his life."
Burton says his proudest achievement in life is his family. He and his wife of 60 years, Eddie Mae, have 15 children. "And a lot of grandchildren," said Burton.
Burton recognizes the progress in race relations over the years but also recognizes that there is still work to be done.
"We still have work to do," said Burton. "Although, we've come from a mighty long way."