Ralph Robert (Sonny) Burks, 66, of 432 E. Gray Street, Covington, Virginia, died Friday, December 17, 2010 at Lewis Gale Alleghany Regional Hospital in Low Moor.

He was April 2, 1944 in Covington, a son of the late Ralph and Viola Bradshaw Burks.

Mr. Burks retired in 2006 from MeadWestvao as an operator in the Power House.

He was a member of Pine Street Baptist Church where he was a vice chairman of Deacon Board. He was a member of the Men's Fellowship Group.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Viola Raphalene Green.

Surviving are his wife of 30 years, Eleanora of Covington; a daughter, Christana Baker of Chesapeake; one niece, Kimberly Green of Hampton; one granddaughter, Catori Griffin of Chesapeake; a sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Doris and James Whitehead of Chesapeake; and many special cousins, relatives and friends.

The family will receive friends Monday evening from 7:00 until 8:00 p.m. in the Pine Street Baptist Church.

The funeral service will be held Tuesday, December 21, 2010 at 1:00 p.m. in the Pine Street Baptist Church with the Rev. Dr. Thomas S. Simmons officiating, assisted by the Rev. James Harrison.

The interment will follow in Alleghany Memorial Park.

The Arritt Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.