Mr. Phillip Ray Burleson, 79, of Icard, passed away peacefully on Friday July 12, 2024 at his residence after a period of declining health.
Mr. Burleson was born December 13, 1944 in Mitchell County, a son of the late Ernest and Kate Carpenter Burleson. Phillip was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He loved his home Church, which was Liberty Baptist Church, where he proudly served as a Deacon. But more than that he loved “The Church” and he exemplified the meaning of being a Christian. He actively supported the mission field, wanting to spread God’s Word. Phillip was a man of small statue, but very strong physically and a giant spiritually. Mr. Burleson retired from Bryant Electric Supply after many years of dedicated years of service.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Angela Burleson Odom, two brothers, James and Jerry Burleson, two sisters, Ernestine Burleson Carpenter and Maxine Burleson Silvers.
Those left to cherish his memory are his wife of 58 years, Rita Ledford Burleson, daughter, Diana Burleson Starnes, and sister, Lorene Willis . Also surviving are the apple of his eyes, his grandchildren, Justin and Jacob Starnes and sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law and several nieces and nephews, all who loved him dearly.
A Celebration of Life will be held 1:00 P.M. Saturday July 20, 2024 at Liberty Baptist Church with Rev. Gene Gouge officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Mission Fund of Liberty Baptist Church, 1292 Cape Hickory Rd., Hickory, NC 28601.
An online guestbook and obituary is available at www.heritagefuneralservices.com.
My sweet Uncle Phillip will be missed by so many. I have so many vivid memories of him making me and my Sister laugh! He was definitely the family comedian! He was always smiling and always happy. My heart goes out to my AUNTIE RITA, Couson Diana and her boys–May the Lord BLESS you all and give you strength and comfort and peace to help you get through this difficult transition. I’m still praying for all of you. I love you all very much!
Rita Im so sorry for your loss Words of sympathy feel inadequate in expressing grief and sorrow for a loss so great. Sending a warm embrace and all my love during this sad time. Wishing you peace and comfort in these difficult days. Will be Praying for you and the Family in Hope God wraps his loving arms around you all and comfort you all I pray the Good Lord wraps his Loving arms around you all and for the days to come God Bless you all
Rita, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. You and the family are in my prayers. May God grant you peace and comfort during this difficult time. I remember you talking so fondly of Phillip all the time we worked together at IFH. You were a great role model for me and others. Your family is a gem. May God hold you all tightly in His arms during the days to come.
Rita, Ray and I are so sorry we didn’t know about Phillip until I spoke with Jolene late yesterday to tell Roy Dean that his cousin Kenneth passed away Thursday. I just read this . I am so sorry we are not there at the memorial service. Please call me 8283108694 when you can. I don’t have your number.