Today we celebrate the life and Heavenly Homecoming of Willie Elmo Burge.

Mr. Burge graduated from William Carey College with a degree in psychology. He had many diverse jobs throughout his lifetime. He retired form the US Army after 20 years, he was a barber, a farmer, Veterans Administration Service officer for Smith County, insurance salesmen for Farm Bureau, and first administrator of the Smith County Nursing Home.

He loved spending time with his family, tending to his vegetable garden and flowers, attending Sylvarena Baptist Church, working on tractors, and playing Dominoes.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John Burge and Susie (Moody) Burge, his wife of 69 years, Willie Mae Burge, his grandson, Adam Mowdy, and his son-in-law, Tom Luscomb.

He is survived by his children, Jimmy Burge (Becky) and Pat Luscomb; grandchildren, Scott Burge (Gina), Keith Burge (Veronica), Jessica McMullan, Wendy Smith (Adam), Jake Burge (Jill), and Amy Hancock (Anthony). He had 10 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren.

The service will be officiated by Bro. Bobby Hood and Bro. Derek Bruce. Jeff Hardy will be providing the music.

Pallbearers will be Keith Burge, Rayne Burge, Bailey Burge, Jake Burge, Anthony Hancock, and Adam Smith. Honorary Pallbearer will be Scott Burge.

Visitation will be at Sylvarena Baptist Church from 9-11 AM, Saturday, May 17, followed by the service at 11 AM. Mr. Burge will be laid to rest at Bethany Cemetery in Sylvarena following the service.

Colonial Chapel is in charge of arrangements. To view and sign online guestbook, please visit, www.colonialchapelbaysprings.com