Raymond Burston was born on February 1, 1958, to Charlene Badgett and Raymond Burston, Sr. in Boston, Massachusetts.  Growing up in Mission Hill the oldest of 9 children.  Being small framed he embraced physical fitness and boxing at the gym, and it showed.  Raymond was one of the fittest people I ever met, perfect in size and stature.

Raymond attended Boston Public schools then trade school eventually joining the Army Reserve, where he was honorably discharged.  When Raymond returned home from the army, he fell in love with his daughter Lakia Blunt's mother Weltha.  Becoming a first-time dad Raymond naturally was protective of his daughter along with his siblings.  Lakia and Raymond developed a strong bond, and it was unbreakable.  He would later meet his then wife Jeradell Milton (Jerry) Gilliard.  From this union they had Raymond L. Burston, Jr. five years later.

Raymond worked for Tufts University for many years. He also worked for the Salvation Army, AM-Vets and Goodwill.  In 2011 Raymond accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior during his walk with Christ, he left his worldly problems to God.  His obedience from suffering was gone, all that was left was joy. Raymond enjoyed talking with Ma, family and friends, connecting with his loved ones on social media, watching movies, preparing home cooked meals, and buying shrimp egg foo young and white rice just about every other day.  He enjoyed outings, watching the skyline and enjoying his favorite tv show Judge Judy.

He is preceded in death by his parents Charlene Badgett and Raymond L. Burston, Sr., sisters Sharlene Burston, Stephanie Shants, Sharilee Banks, his brother Rodney Burston, nephew Troy Burston and daughter Lakia Blunt.

Raymond leaves to mourn his brothers Reynard Burston, Stephen Wright and Joseph Burston. Sister Stacey Burston-Ward. Children Raymond L. Burston, Jr., and Anthony Gilliard. Nieces Jalila (Mario) Jack, Stephanie Shanks, Allegra Jones, Shardae Burston Johnson, Shaquia Bates, Chavelle Young, Jaida Wright, Shennelle Wright.  Nephews Juan Shanks, Jr., and Devin Ward. Great nieces Adiva Jack, Alexis Burston, Jolinda Burston, Tashani Burston, Ashanti Burston; great-nephews Aiden Jack, Ethan Jack, Terrence Goodridge and Gerald Simmons. He also leaves behind a loving host of aunts, uncles, extended family and dear friends.