Charles William Burke Sr.

Mr. Charles William Burke Sr., age 91, of Marietta, Georgia passed away on January 8th, 2025. A Memorial Service for Mr. Burke will be held on January 18th, 2025, at the Powder Springs Chapel of Mayes Ward Dobbins at 2:30 PM. Visitation will be held on the same day, from 1:00 PM until the time of the service. Charles was born at home in Wrens, Georgia as the youngest child of the late Paul and Lily Burke. He began his employment at the young age of 7 when he milked cows every morning before school. At age 12, he began working in the local drug store, sweeping floors and as a soda jerk. After graduating from Wrens High School, where he played football and basketball, participated in school plays, and graduated 3rd in his class, he worked for the railroad in Augusta, Georgia. Realizing that working in a drug store was his passion, he enlisted in the Army to save money to attend college. He was stationed at Fort Gordon for the extent of his military career. Working through college as a soda jerk in Decatur, he attended Oglethorpe University and graduated from Southern School of Pharmacy (Mercer) in 1960. Shortly after graduating, he met and married the love of his life, June. During his time as a pharmacist, he touched countless lives with his compassion and legacy of care. Charles worked tirelessly to ensure his community could access needed medications and medical advice. He was very generous and never denied his regular customers the necessary medicines and supplies due to lack of payment. He reached his goal of filling his last prescription at the age of 90 and was the next oldest registered pharmacist in Georgia at his passing. Known for his unwavering work ethic and dedication to helping others, he was a pillar of his profession and beloved by his customers and employees. Outside of work, Charles had a full and rich life. He was an avid golfer, always ready for a round with friends and family. Most recently, he played golf in a youth fundraiser with his church this past fall. He also enjoyed fishing anytime he had the chance. His love for the outdoors extended to his well-kept yard. He took great pride in maintaining his superbly manicured lawn. Charles, June, and dear friends enjoyed traveling to Ireland, Scotland, England, Bermuda, Hawaii, Alaska, New England, and out west. He was also a loyal and passionate supporter of the Georgia Bulldogs, never missing the opportunity to watch the game and cheer on his team with enthusiasm. Most notable was his dedication to his church. He grew up attending Wrens Presbyterian Church. After marrying June on July 30, 1961, he attended Cartersville First Presbyterian for several years before moving to Austell, where he attended and served as an elder for more than 30 years at Austell Presbyterian. He was a member at Macland Presbyterian for 15 years before joining Due West Methodist, where he has attended for the last 12 years. He rarely missed Sunday service, and one of his last conversations was when he told his nurse that he needed to get out of the hospital to go to church. However, nothing brought Charles more joy than spending time with his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren were the light of his life, and he cherished every moment with them as they did with him. Whether playing games, attending their events, or simply enjoying time together, his love for his family was immeasurable. Mr. Burke is survived by his loving wife; Mrs. June Burke, his children; Jodie Burke Edwards (Paul) and Bill Burke (Anne), his grandchildren; Mary Beth Brennan (Logan), Michael Edwards (Sarah), Amy Carter (David), William Burke, Matthew Burke, and Caroline Burke, and his great-grandchildren; Nathan Brennan and Anna Jane Edwards. Mr. Burke is also survived by his nieces, nephews, and many friends and other relatives. Mr. Burke is preceded by his parents, Paul and Lily Jarrett Burke, brother George Edmund Burke, and Sister Jean Burke Paul. Charles' true legacy, though, lies in the relationships he built throughout his life. His kindness, sense of humor, and incredible generosity made him a cherished friend to many. He had a remarkable ability to make others feel special and was always first to lend a helping hand or share a word of encouragement. His positive outlook was a blessing to all who knew him. Truly, his life was well lived. in lieu of flowers, please donate to Austell Presbyterian Church (5895 Love St., Austell, Ga. 30168) or Due West Methodist Church (3956 Due West Rd., Marietta, Ga.30064) "Well done, good and faithful servant." Matthew 25:21

Charles William Burke Sr.

October 12, 1933 - January 8, 2025