Ray Allen Burks Sr.
Ray Allen Burks Sr., of Wurtland, Kentucky, passed into the Kingdom of God, Saturday, January 13, 2024, at Community Hospice Care Center in Ashland, Kentucky. Ray was born October 20, 1935, in Lynchburg, Virigina, a son of the late Albert and Shirley Woods Burks. Ray retired from the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 181, where he was a member for 50 years. He enjoyed watching dirt track racing and spending time with his family and friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years Mary Katherine Vest Burks; three brothers Albert Burks, Andrew Burks, and Ernie Burks; one sister Mona Urbanis.
He is survived by a son Ray A. Burks Jr. of Wurtland, Kentucky; a daughter Linda ( Gary) Lowe of South Shore, Kentucky ; a daughter in law Michelle Burks of Las Vagas, Neveda; four grandchildren Angela (Drew) Dicostanzo of Las Vegas, Neveda, Jeremiah Haywood of South Shore, Kentucky, Samantha Howell of McArthur, Ohio, and J.R. Nichols of Arcata, California; four great-grandchildren, Dylan Dicostanzo, Sydney Howell, Wyatt Howell, and Luna Rose Nichols; two sisters Bessie Phelps of Roanoke, Virgina, and Dottie Doss of Wurtland; two brothers Jimmy Burks of Wurtland, Kentucky and Larry Burks of Lynchburg, Virigina; several nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. Reed Funeral home in Greenup, Kentucky is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be made at www.rlrfuneralhome.com.
Ray Sr. was my uncle and and the most interesting person I've ever known. Unbelievably smart and kind and someone that could instantly befriend anyone he met. I have fond memories of him taking me to dirt track races and Grayson lake. He had more common sense than anyone I've ever met and left a lasting impression on me that I will always cherish. He truly was a unique individual that always makes me smile when I think of him. So sorry for your loss Ray jr.