The Episcopal Notice of Transition for Her Grace, Bishop-Designate Surtonia Y. Burton
A Faithful Servant Has Answered the Call to Eternal Rest
With profound reverence and deep sorrow, we announce the heavenly transition of Her Grace, Bishop-Designate Surtonia Y. Burton, a devoted vessel of the Lord, tireless laborer in the vineyard, and beloved spiritual leader whose life was a testament to grace, perseverance, and divine purpose. Bishop-Designate Burton departed this earthly life to enter her eternal reward, leaving behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to the body of Christ.
A Life Poured Out in Service
Bishop-Designate Surtonia Y. Burton was more than a title—she was a shepherd, intercessor, and pillar in the faith community. Her anointed journey in ministry was marked by deep compassion, fearless leadership, and a transformative teaching and preaching gift that touched countless lives across congregations, communities, and denominations.
Raised in the fear and admonition of the Lord, she embraced her call to ministry at a young age and quickly became known for her authenticity, humility, and spiritual depth. Over the years, she rose through the ranks of ecclesiastical leadership with integrity and honor, ultimately being affirmed and consecrated as Bishop-Designate, a role she received with great humility and commitment to serve.
Though her elevation was recent, her impact had long since reached the dimensions of episcopal authority—guiding, nurturing, and equipping leaders within and beyond her jurisdiction. She was known as a mother in Zion, always extending herself as a mentor to younger clergy, a counselor to the brokenhearted, and a warrior in prayer.
A Legacy of Love, Labor, and Leadership
Bishop-Designate Burton’s ministry was characterized by relentless faith and a heart for the marginalized. Whether preaching behind the sacred desk or working quietly in the community, she lived by the creed that “ministry is not a stage, but a service.” Her commitment to the holistic well-being of God’s people was evident in everything she touched—outreach programs, women’s empowerment initiatives, leadership development forums, and pastoral care.
Her ability to merge traditional values with modern relevance allowed her to minister effectively across generations. She carried the mantle of leadership with both authority and grace, always pointing others back to Christ.
Throughout her years in ministry, she remained a fierce advocate for education, spiritual growth, and social justice. Her voice rang boldly on matters of equity and faith in action. Her laughter, wisdom, and ability to “rightly divide the word of truth” made her a treasured figure in pulpits and prayer closets alike.
A Kingdom Transition
The news of her passing has left a palpable void in the hearts of those who walked with her, served under her leadership, and were transformed by her ministry. Yet, we do not mourn as those without hope. We rejoice in knowing that she fought the good fight, finished her course, and kept the faith. And now, she rests in the arms of the One she so faithfully served.
As the Word declares in Revelation 14:13 — “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord… they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.” Indeed, the deeds of Bishop-Designate Surtonia Y. Burton will live on, etched into the annals of Kingdom history and into the hearts of all she touched.
Final Arrangements and Honorary Services
The College of Bishops, clergy, and faith community will gather in solemn celebration to honor the life and legacy of Bishop-Designate Burton. Details regarding her Celebration of Life Service, homegoing arrangements, and opportunities for public viewing and reflection will be released in the coming days.
In the meantime, the church universal is asked to keep her family, spiritual sons and daughters, and ecclesiastical affiliates in fervent prayer as we collectively navigate this sacred transition.
Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of your Lord.
Though Her Grace has laid down her earthly mitre, she now wears a crown incorruptible.
