A native of Birmingham, Alabama, Jack Burton graduated from West End High School in 1963, where he lettered in football, wrestling, baseball, and track.

Burton received a baseball scholarship to Mississippi State University and played on two Southeastern Conference championship teams. He eventually transferred to the University of Alabama in Birmingham and earned his bachelor's and master's degrees.

In 1965, while attending Mississippi State, Burton began his wrestling officiating career. It signaled the beginning of an officiating and coaching career spanning more than 50 years.

In 1967, Burton established the Birmingham Wrestling Officials Association, the first wrestling officials association in Alabama recognized by the Alabama High School Athletics Association. He began with three officials in 1967, and gradually built the association to more than 30 officials by the time he ended his officiating career in 1997.

During his 32-year officiating career, Burton called 32 high school state tournaments, and was selected as Official-of-the-Year numerous times. He also officiated for the SEC from 1973-79.

In 1997, Burton received the Distinguished Service Award from the AHSAA for his many years of service and leadership in wrestling officiating.

After retiring from officiating, Burton began his wrestling coaching career. He coached at Erwin High School for eight years from 1997-2005. He coached numerous state champions and in 1999 led Erwin to an undefeated season and the Class 5A state team title.

In 2005, Burton moved to Hewitt-Trussville High School, where he has coached for the last 12 years. He coached numerous state champions at Hewitt and led the team to several top five finishes at the state tournament.

Jack and his wife, Lynne, have been married for 15 years. Jack has three daughters: Lori, Kim, and Mandy; and several grandchildren.