Another death has struck the campuses of the Jasper Independent School District. On Saturday KJAS News learned that David Burt had died. Burt, 58, was a longtime educator within the school District serving for over 22 years as coach, teacher and most recently Principal of the Junior High School. However, he was living in Alto and working for the Alto Independent School District at the time of his death.
Ironically, the death of "Coach Burt" as he was known in the community came on the same day that funeral services was to be held for 42 year old Raymanda Hafford Risby who also served as a coach at the Junior High School who passed away last Saturday.
Coach Burt comes from a family of educators within the school district which are not new to eduction or tragedy. Both his father and mother taught school and last year his daughter Aiden, who was also an educator at the school was shot and killed in a drive by shooting that occurred at a last year in San Antonio.
Following the death of Burt on Saturday, the Superintendent of the Jasper Schools John Seybold issued the following statement:
It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of David Burt, a longtime and deeply valued member of the Jasper ISD family. Most recently serving as Principal of Jasper Junior High, David dedicated more than 32 years to the service of students—22 of those years right here at Jasper ISD.
Affectionately known as Coach Burt, he was beloved by students, athletes, and colleagues alike. His impact stretched far beyond the classroom and athletic fields—his warmth, leadership, and mentorship touched countless lives.
David came from a proud Jasper ISD legacy. His parents, Billy and Sammie Burt, both served the district for decades before their retirement. His late daughter, Aiden, continued that legacy by becoming a teacher and coach herself—something David took immense pride in.
David loved his family deeply, and he also loved his students—past and present. He would often beam with pride as he shared stories of their accomplishments and the lives they were building.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this incredibly difficult time.
Funeral services for Coach Burt are pending at Stringer and Griffin Funeral Home of Jasper.
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