Laura Bell Burke

Laura Bell Burke, 81, of Kingsport went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, September 24, 2024 at her home with her family by her side. She was born in Hiltons, VA to the late Sidney and Fannie Wilcox. Laura was a graduate of Gate City High School in the class of 1962. She attended House of Prayer Church in Johnson City where she also played the piano. Laura enjoyed crocheting and her beloved birds Lonnie and Marilyn. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend who will be greatly missed by all who knew her. 

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her loving husband of 31 years, Judge Burke; brothers, Tom, Hoskin, and Albert Wilcox; sisters, Adell Blair and Mazie Michaels.

Survivors include her daughter, Jenny Southerland and husband Michael; son, James Burke and wife Donna; grandchildren, Amber Wentz and husband Isaac, Aaron Burke and wife Amber, Emily Sanders and husband Michael, Abbey Whitfield and husband Robert; great-grandson, Bruce Wentz; sisters, Audrey Dickson and husband Hubert, and Edna Quillen; special friend and caregiver, Paula Scott; along with a host of friends and extended family. 

A graveside service will be conducted at 11am on Saturday, September 28, 2024 at East Lawn Memorial Park with Pastor Larry Garland officiating. Pallbearers will be Doug Blair, Ronald Blair, Aaron Burke, Isaac Wentz, Robert Whitfield, and Michael Sanders. Those wishing to attend are asked to meet at the cemetery by 10:50am. 

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Legacy Home Care, Dr. Emily Hubbs, and Rehabilitation Hospital of Kingsport for their loving care. 

Carter-Trent Funeral Home in Kingsport is serving the Burke family.