James Willard Burke, age 83, of Clarkesville, passed away Saturday, July 29, 2023.
Born in Clarkesville, Georgia, on April 23, 1940, Willard was the son of the late Robert Taylor Burke and Louise Holcomb Burke. He was a faithful member of Bethlehem Baptist Church, where he loved visiting with every single person he could get to. He greatly enjoyed being “gussied up” and fellowshipping with others. Willard was a Professional Barber for over 65 years and took great pride in serving and getting to know his many clients, many that became good friends. One of his greatest accomplishments was getting to give his four great-grandsons their first haircut. Willard was an avid golfer and he greatly enjoyed fishing with his wife, Anne…right up until she started catching bigger fish. In addition to his parents welcoming Willard to heaven are son Curtis Mitchel “Micky” Burke and brothers Ronald Burke and Bobby Burke.
Survivors include his wife, Anne Crowe Burke of Clarkesville; brothers and sisters-in-law Dan and Peggy Burke of Clarkesville, Hugh and Hilda Burke of Clarkesville, and Lee and Carol Burke of Rome; sister Florence Burke Wikle of Demorest; sister and brother-in-law Ann Burke Appling and husband Don of Buford, four great-grandsons, one great-granddaughter, as well numerous nieces, nephews, many extended family members, and his best furry friend “Winston.”
Funeral services will be held at Hillside Memorial Chapel at 11:00 AM, Monday, July 31, 2023, with Dr. Craig Ward and Rev. Chip Cranford officiating. Interment will follow the service in Habersham Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday, July 30, 2023, from 2:00 PM until 6:00 PM.
An online guest book is available for the family by visiting www.hillsidememorialchapel.com.
Funeral arrangements are in the care and professional direction of Hillside Memorial Chapel & Gardens, Clarkesville. 706-754-6256
