Sam Burgess, Jr

Elder Sam Burgess, Jr. was born in Stockton, GA, on January 21, 1934, to the late Octavia and Sam Burgess, Sr.

Elder Sam Burgess, Jr. was a well respected man of God. He was a man who not only loved God but possessed a deep love for his family and friends. In his presence was peace and joy. With patience and love, he showed himself friendly by extending his hand to those in need. His charming ways and smiling face are a pleasure to recall. His family and friends could find both hope and courage just by looking into his eyes. He demonstrated daily the words found in Proverbs 16:24— “Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.” He always had encouraging words for those who came in contact with him. As he was fondly called, “Uncle Sam” was also a talented and skilled musician. Truly he has left a life-lasting impression on all who knew him.

On Friday, February 2, 2018, Elder Sam Burgess Jr., like the Apostle Paul, declared “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith; Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, shall give me….”

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife: Annie Mae Burgess; his children: Jerome Kelly and Janice Price; his brothers: Roosevelt Burgess, Wilbur Burgess, Warren Burgess and James Burgess; and his grandparents: Isom and Eliza Belcher, Henry and Elize Burgess.

Mourning his passing while yet rejoicing his life, Elder Sam Burgess, Jr. leaves to celebrate his life, one sister: Eliza Clarkson of St. Petersburg, FL; one special niece: Dorris Foster (Ivory); four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren whom loved and adored; his caretaker: Carmen Bauknight; his St. Lewis Church Family and a host of family and friends.



The Celebration of Life for the late Elder Sam Burgess, Jr., will be Sunday, February 04, 2017, 2:00 P.M., from the sanctuary of St. Lewis Missionary Baptist Church, Hwy 135, Lakeland, GA.

Pastor Randy Jones will officiate.

Public viewing Saturday, February 03, 2017, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Godfrey Funeral Home.

Interment with military honors will be Tuesday, February 13, 2018, 1:30 p.m., at Bay National Cemetery, St. Petersburg, FL.

Personal and professional services are provided by Godfrey Funeral Home, LLC.