John Duane Burke

John Duane Burke, 65, affectionately known for his gentle spirit and warm heart, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, August 19, 2025, entering into his eternal home where he desire was to be with his mother again.

Born on February 24, 1960, John spent his formative years in the Wrens-Zebina area until he moved to Gracewood at a young age, residing there until its closing in 2018. Following this, he moved in with Bridgett Garnett, his devoted caregiver, under the sponsorship of Haven of Hope.

John will be fondly remembered as a "gentle giant." He approached life with a helpful demeanor, always eager to assist with household chores—he especially liked helping out in the kitchen—and show his strength when it came to lifting and moving objects. He wanted to keep everyone in line and everything in order as evidenced by his habit of always carrying a pen and clipboard. He was also known to always have a dollar bill tucked in his shirt pocket. This sweet spirit, while gentle, was not one to back down; he stood up for himself and others, earning the respect of those around him.

His interests were simple yet profound. An avid basketball enthusiast, John loved to both play and watch the game. A fan of Coca-Cola, he enjoyed life's little pleasures, which included his fondness for babies and pretty girls. He preferred slip-on shoes for their fast and easy removal.

John's family, who meant the world to him, will carry on his memory with love and gratitude. He is survived by his devoted siblings: Gordon Burke, Debra Radford, Kathy Robinson (Gerald), and Jimmy Burke. He leaves behind thirteen cherished nieces and nephews, including Samantha Arnold (Lee), Summer Burke, Christinemae Meraveles, Julie Smothers (Tracy), Chad Radford (Megan), Ashley Radford, Christopher Radford (Sara), Davis Branch, Jessica Young, Justin Branch (Jennifer), Holley Burke (Walt), Sarah Kniphfer (Kraig), and Jamie Burke, as well as thirteen great nieces and nephews, along with other extended family and friends who held him dear.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Gordon Burke and Anne Thigpen Burke Burrum, as well as his stepfather, Charles Burrum; and his beloved niece, Kiley Drury.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Bridgett Garnett, as well as Andrea and Will Grier of Haven of Hope, for the care, love and compassion shown to John—you provided him a safe, loving environment and enriched his life for which we are eternally grateful. We are comforted knowing that he was well-cared for and happy.

A visitation will be held Sunday afternoon, August 24, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM, with the funeral service, officiated by Rev. David Nowling, starting at 2:30 PM, both taking place at the Ebenezer Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

John Duane Burke will be missed by all who knew him, his contributions to those around him will not be forgotten, and his legacy of kindness will surely continue through the lives he touched.