David Burton, a staunch supporter of Milford and the surrounding community, passed away on October 9, 2026. He was 92.
David was born on May 10, 1934, to Irwin and Maradel Burton, living in Milford his entire life except for his time in college and the military. Educated in Milford schools, David earned eleven varsity letters in four sports. He graduated from Georgetown University with a bachelor’s degree in social sciences.
Following graduation, David was commissioned in the Army Signal Corps and served in Germany. After serving in the military, David joined his father in the family automotive business and spent 40 years in that career. He was the fourth generation to lead the business starting in 1959. Under his leadership, the company added franchises and locations. David served as a member of as well as a term of as president of, Delaware Auto Dealers Association.
David had a strong interest not only in the town he called home, but also in the state. He served on Milford City Council for ten years and on the Milford Memorial Hospital Board of Directors for more than 30 years, serving one term as its chairperson. David was a founding member of the Milford Chamber of Commerce and led successful capital campaigns for the Milford Public Library, the Milford Boys and Girls Club, the Music School of Delaware and St. John’s Church.
In addition, David was a long-standing member of La Esperanza, a group working with the Hispanic community in Sussex County. He chaired the State Welfare Board and was a founding member of the Delaware Community Foundation. He was also a founder and member of the Greater Lewes Foundation, served on the Board of Visitors and governors of t Washington College where he earned his master’s degree in history.
Condolences appeared almost immediately on social media at the news of his passing.
“He was a wonderful neighbor, community leader, businessman, and lifelong best friend of my father. Both of them always had a smile and usually a joke or two to share,” Karen McColley posted. “Please keep Dave’s family in your thoughts and prayers and respect their privacy. Rest in peace Dave”
Many remarked on what an upstanding leader of the community David was, not only in Milford but throughout the state.
“Over the years there have been few businessmen as dedicated as Mr. Dave and his father,” Stephanie Pittari said. “Thoughts and prayers to his family during their tremendous loss.”
David was preceded in death by his loving wife, Ann Leonard Burton.
He is survived by his four children, Joseph Burton and his wife, Turtle; Irwin “IG” Burton and his wife, Julie; Charles Burton and his wife, Marie; and Sarah Burton Boling; ten grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and his sisters, Nellie Ziegler, Peggy Spengler and Suzy Graham.
Visitation will be held on Friday, October 16 from 4 to 7 PM at St. John the Apostle Fellowship Hall, 506 Seabury Avenue, Milford. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 AM on Saturday, October 17 in the church chapel with a reception in the church hall after.
In lieu of flowers, donations in David’s name may be made to any of the charities named above.
Arrangements by Rogers-Hovatter Funeral Home. To send flowers, please visit their flower store or to send a memorial tree, visit their website. Online condolences can be placed in the guestbook.
