George Ronald “Ronnie” Burke passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, February 16th, surrounded by family.
He was 80 years old. A native of Abingdon, Virginia, and a born-again Christian, George served in the Army Reserves for 6 years.
After retiring from Westinghouse, he was a long-haul truck driver traveling across the country, and then spent his time building dollhouses, fixing anything and everything, pranking you when you least expected it, caring for grandkids and great grandkids and the love of his life, Fonda.
He enjoyed fishing, bowling, taking pictures, listening to gospel music, and was a devoted husband, loving father, stepfather, brother, brother-in-law, grandfather, and great grandfather known as Pappy to almost 20 grandchildren and great grandchildren who learned from him the true value of patience, kindness, and love.
He is survived by his wife, Fonda Burke, sister Marie McGlamery (Tom), sisters-in-law Jean Burke and Phyllis Burke; brother-in-law Jimmy Barker (Sandy); children Penny Amos, Teresa Taylor (Gary), Amy Burke Lawson, Dr. Bobby Smith II (Laura), Christa Anderson (Stacey); grandchildren Lindsey Peace (Shannon), Sierra Snead, Adriana Snead, Kaylee Taylor, Payton Amos, Christian Lawson, Paul Martin, Tabitha Smith, Sarah Smith, Mary Nance, Clarissa Greensmyth, Hannah Smith (Jake), Avery Anderson, Claire Anderson; great grandchildren Jadelynn Peace, Gracelynn Peace, Griffin Puckett, Colby Puckett, and Braylee Georgia Puckett, and many nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Paul Burke and Carrie Sipes Burke, sister Elsie Thomas and brothers Vernie, Gene, Sam, Melvin, Garland, J.C. and Les.
A private viewing will be held at Frost Funeral Home in Abingdon.
Frost Funeral Home and Cremation Services is honored to serve the family of Mr. George Ronald “Ronnie” Burke.
Fonda and Marie, so sad to see this. I’ll be praying for you as you go through this hard part of our lives.. Hugs to both of you!!
Wayne Ferguson
Sad to hear this. You were a great boss and a wonderful friend. I will always remember you and your great personality,