Mary Frances Dickinson Burks, 76, of Buena Vista, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 29, 2016 surrounded by her family.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister and aunt, Mary Frances immersed herself in her family, her church and her community.

Upon graduation from Radford College, she married William Robert Burks (Bill) and began a distinguished career in public education that spanned 37 years. Throughout her life, she actively served on numerous church and community boards, committees and projects.

She is survived by her husband, Bill; son, Bob and wife, Leola; son, Ben and wife, Sandra; six grandchildren, Jennifer and husband, Matt, Storm and fiance, Sara, Garret, Ryan, Allison, and Chelsie; two brothers, Tommy and wife, Joan, and Robert and wife, Dawn; and a host of family and friends.

We will celebrate her life and faith at 2 p.m., Sunday, May 1, 2016 at St. John's United Methodist Church, Buena Vista with the Rev. Dr. Sonja Flye Oliver officiating.

The family will receive friends following the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. John's United Methodist Church or to the American Cancer Society.

Arrangements are being handled by Bolling, Grose, & Lotts Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Buena Vista, Va.