Beloved Jasper Educator and Coach David Burt Passes Away

Coach David Burt with his daughter, Ayden, both proud members of the Jasper ISD legacy. Photo courtesy of Facebook.

Jasper ISD is grieving the loss of one of its most cherished educators, Coach David Burt. A lifelong advocate for students, Coach Burt dedicated more than three decades to Texas public education—22 of those years devoted to Jasper ISD, where he most recently served as Principal of Jasper Junior High.

Coach Burt, affectionately known by generations of students simply as “Coach,” was a pillar of the Jasper community. His impact reached far beyond the classroom and the athletic fields—he led with compassion, strength, and an unwavering commitment to doing what was best for students.

Official Statement from Superintendent John Seybold:

"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." God bless, John Seybold

Just weeks before his passing, Coach Burt shared a heartfelt retirement message on social media—a message that now stands as a powerful reflection on a life of service:

“I dedicated 33 years to the education system of Texas. I was the product of two life-long educators and I produced an educator. Together the four of us served 119 years to the public education system of Texas, 105 of those years to Jasper ISD… To the thousands of students and student-athletes I crossed paths with, please know that whether I showed it or told you, I loved you all.” "For those of you who got to work with the final product of me as Principal of Jasper Jr. High, I want you to know that those were the best years of my career… I always did what I thought was right for the students.”

Coach Burt closed that post with a line that now feels profoundly fitting:

“Some of it’s magic, some of it’s tragic, but I have had a good life all along the way.”

East Texas Banner will provide updates as soon as official service information becomes available.