William Ellis Burks, Sr., age 76, of Clifton Forge, Virginia, passed away Saturday, May 18, 2019 at his residence.

He was born in Rich Patch, Alleghany County, Virginia on March 23, 1943 to the late Melvin Noel Burks, Sr. and Pasty Caroline Keene.

Billy was of the Baptist faith and retired from the rubber plant in Iron Gate, Virginia in 2007.

In addition to his parents, Billy was preceded by his loving wife, Sandra "Kay" Ford Burks on February 23, 2007; six sisters, Frances Burks (twin who died at birth), Opal B. Kincaid (twin), Romana B. DePriest, Charlotte B. Bush, Joyce Burks and Betty Burks; two half-brothers, Melvin Noel Burks, Jr. and Cecil Merlin Burks, as well as several brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews.

He is survived by two daughters, Tammy Mace (Ray) of Covington and Loretta Carlson (Matt) of Tulsa, OK; a son, William E. Burks, Jr.; five grandchildren, Quintin H. Walker Jr. (Michelle), Stormy D. Walker, Cody Baker (Kaitlyne) and Logan Burks, all of Covington, and Katie B. Dixon (Michael) of Clifton Forge; eight great grandchildren, Stephanie, Destiny, Elektra and Michael Walker, Skylia and Autumn Mace, Hunter Baker, all of Covington, and Abigail Dixon of Clifton Forge; as well as several brothers and sisters-in-law and many nieces and nephews.

In keeping with Billy's wishes, his body will be cremated. There will be no formal services. His children will be spreading his and their mother's ashes in a private ceremony at a later time.

The Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge, handled the arrangements.