Raymond Joseph Burch, 88, of Crystal City died April 16, 2026, at his home. A veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Mr. Burch served at Johnson Air Base in Japan from 1956 to 1958. Following his honorable discharge, he returned to the States to pursue his education, earning a bachelor’s degree from UMKC. In 1962, he began a dedicated 33-year career as a ninth grade history teacher at Richard Henry Dana Junior High School in San Pedro, Calif. While teaching, he earned a master’s degree from Pepperdine University and launched a successful second career in real estate with Golden West Realty. He continued his work in the real estate industry for many years following his retirement from teaching in 1995. In 2023, he returned to his roots in Crystal City to be closer to his family. He will be remembered for his faith, education and devotion to others. Born July 23, 1937, in Crystal City, he was the son of the late Mary (Bachek) and William Burch.
He is survived by three nephews: Roderique Roberts of Crystal City, Brad Burch (Kessy) of Fillmore, Calif., and Jason Burch of Little Rock, Ark.
He was preceded in death by a brother: Thomas E. Burch; and a sister: Mary Sue Roberts.
Visitation is scheduled from 10:30 a.m. until funeral services at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 29, at Vinyard Funeral Home, 616 W. Main St., in Festus, officiated by Father Steve Lian. Interment will follow in the National Cemetery at Jefferson Barracks. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association. Arrangements are under the direction of Vinyard Funeral Home.