Robert "Bob" L. Burton was born on April 2, 1935 in Springfield, Ohio. Bob graduated from Central State University with a B.S. in accounting and a Master's degree in public administration from Central Michigan University.

Bob was a well-respected community leader, serving in many roles around Springfield. He served as a Captain in the Ohio National Guard for ten years, operated his own accounting firm and worked as a professor of accounting at Clark State Community College.

Elected to the Springfield City Commission in 1971, Bob was in that role for two years before serving as the

mayor of Springfield for 10 years. Bob remained very involved in community boards and foundations throughout the years - specifically as a co-founder of the African American Community Fund of the Springfield Foundation. He was also a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.

Bob passed away at home on Monday, May 24, 2021, survived by two sons, Bruce and Bryant, and wife Dorris.

Robert L. Burton is laid to rest in section 38 of Ferncliff Cemetery.