Leslie Dorland Burton

Leslie Dorland Burton, 84 of Stratford, Texas made his journey home to heaven on Thursday, January 8, 2026 at home surrounded by family.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at the First Christian Church in Stratford, Texas under the direction of Beeson – Morrison Funeral Directors. Interment to follow at Stratford Cemetery.

Dorland was born on March 9, 1941, at his grandparents’ home to Norman E. and Mary Lorene Massey Burton in Bard, New Mexico. Dorland grew up near Canadian, Texas with his brothers Oran, Shelby, and Duval where they learned the value of family. Dorland graduated from Canadian High School and Draughon’s Business College in Amarillo, Texas.

Dorland met the love of his life Ann Bradley while attending college in Amarillo. They married in Amarillo on February 9, 1963, and made their home in Sherman County, Texas. He was devoted to his wife Ann, son Sherwin, and daughter Zenith. He was the proud Granddad to Scotty, Kimberly, Eric, and Rhyan.

Dorland was a lifelong farmer and rancher who found great joy in the rhythm of the seasons. He spent his days tending the soil and nurturing the livestock he raised. He was a true steward of the land. He spent countless hours teaching his children and grandchildren his trade and supporting them at the yearly 4-H livestock shows. Dorland was proud to be a board member for the Sherman County Soil & Water Conservation District.

He was a member of the First Christian Church in Stratford and lived a life of faith and purpose. He treasured the friendships he developed throughout his life and was always glad to lend a helping hand. Whether making grilled cheese sandwiches for a church event or cutting down a tree, he was always glad to be of service. He was a bit ornery and enjoyed having a good time with family and friends. He looked forward to yearly family camping trips up in the mountains for many years. One of his greatest joys was taking his grandchildren along for the adventure.

Dorland is preceded in death by his parents Norman and Lorene Burton and Great Granddaughter Destiny Cheyenne Heddins.

Dorland is survived by his wife Ann of almost 63 years, children: Sherwin and Connie Burton of Stratford, TX, Zenith and Tim Heddins of Sanford, TX; grandchildren: Scotty and Tiffany Heddins of Dalhart, TX, Kimberly and Nolan Johnson of Lubbock, TX, Eric and Megan Burton of Dumas, TX, Rhyan and Kallie Burton of Clarendon, TX; great grandchildren: McKynlee, Brynlee, Blakelee, and Bennett Heddins, Callie McLaughlin, Hayes and Miles Burton, Strattan and Remmi Burton; brothers: Oran and Ann Burton of Amarillo, TX, Shelby and Sue Burton of Dalhart, TX, Duval and Shirley Burton of Spearman, TX; Uncle Frank Massey, Aunt Elsie Wiseman: sister-in-law: Betty Beck: numerous nieces and nephews, cousins, and special friends.