Myrtis Marie (Burton) Townes

Myrtis Marie Townes was born on November 9, 1950 in Santa Ana, California. She was the third of four children born to Percy D. Burton and Minnie Burton, the Burton’s moved from Jefferson, Texas and settled in Santa Ana, in 1947.

Myrtis graduated from Santa Ana High School in 1968, where she participated in Tri-Y Club helping young girls grow in fellowship with God and each other, the club also participated in service activities and projects with the local YWCA that benefited families throughout the City of Santa Ana. Myrtis was active in Sunday School, Baptist Training Union (better known as BTU) and Junior and Youth Choirs. After High School she attended Dental School and worked as a Dental Assistant and Office Manager for 30+ years.

Myrtis met the love of her life Johnnie O. Townes Jr.; they were joined in Holy Matrimony and enjoyed 46 years together. Myrtis and Johnnie enjoyed life together, traveling, developing real estate and spending time with their children and grandchildren. Myrtis found pleasure in cooking, arts and crafts, party planning and decorating. She had a bigger than life personality, her pure heart, big smile and affectionate laugh will truly be missed.

Myrtis was preceded in death by her parents Percy and Minnie Burton and brother Verlen Burton.

She is survived by her beloved husband Johnnie Townes, son Damon (Tiesh) Townes and daughter Nicole (Jared) Tatum, sister Sandra Burton, brother Michael Burton, four grandchildren Taja Dunn, Kimani  Townes, Kinidi Townes, and Jared Tatum Jr.; and a host of devoted aunts, uncles, nieces, cousins, in-laws, extended family and close friends.

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