Belva Burke

Belva G. (Duty) Burke, 90, of Sherwood, Ohio departed this world and was received into the loving arms of Jesus, January 13, 2023. Belva was at her daughter and son in laws home in Rutledge, Tennessee, Bill and Raycene Rice, whom had been caring for her there since August 7, 2022. She was surrounded by her loving daughter, Raycene, and loving son in law, Bill holding her hand as she took her last breath. Also present were Brittany, her favorite hospice nurse and Tyler, hospice chaplain. Tyler prayed with us and spoke of Belva's ascension to glory through her undying faith in Jesus' promise.

 

Belva was born May 14, 1932 at Ragland, WV to the late Charles and Mary Duty. On May 21, 1948 she married Elliott Ray Burke whom preceded her in death, January 26, 2008. She was also preceded in death by her daughter, Cordella S. Smith on April 6, 2018 and her only son, Larry J. Burke on February 8, 2010, and son in law, Billy J. (Cordella) Smith January 4, 2019. Surviving are two daughters, Shirley J. (Howard) Roberts of Willis, Texas and Raycene B. (William) Rice of Rutledge, Tn. Belva has nine grandchildren and many, many great and great great grandchildren.

 

Belvas siblings are Raymond, Roy, Ernest, George, Thurman, CW, Ruth, Ruby, Roberta, Corena, Pat and Margie.

Belva was a member of First Baptist Church, Defiance, Ohio and loved the Lord. She was a loving wife and homemaker, only working outside the home when the coal mines were on strike to help her family. She enjoyed bowling, painting and spending time with her loved ones. She also loved to decorate her home, go shopping and sew and make many little gifts for friends.

 

Today, we celebrate Belva's life here on earth and her steadfast dedication to our Lord Jesus Christ. Today, Belva is celebrating her new body and a place of glory that no one can begin to imagine. Oh but to see the face of God.