Patsy Lou Burke

Patsy Lou Burke, age 86, went to be with the Lord on Monday, September 25, 2023.  She was a resident of both Glenwood and the Montgomery County Nursing Home in Mount Ida.

She was born on February 3, 1937, in Caddo Bend, near Amity, the daughter of Albert and Lenora Waggoner.  She was preceded in death by her parents, as well as her brothers, Otis Waggoner Jr. and Lewis Waggoner, and her sister, Norma Holcombe.  On December 26, 1957, Patsy married the true love of her life, Sgt. Joe Willie Burke (USMC). 

In 1955, Patsy graduated from high school before attending Henderson State Teacher College. Determined to finance her education, she grew cucumbers and made pickles to sell for her tuition. While in college to pay for her room and board, Patsy worked on the chow serving line alongside Dick Smedley and Bradley Brown, friends of her husband’s. In May 1961, Patsy graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education.

Patsy's journey in teaching spanned over a period of eighteen years, during which she made a lasting impact on the lives of many students. She began her teaching career at various schools including Star City, Pine Bluff, Lake Hamilton, and finally Caddo Hills. Patsy's dedication to her profession earned her admiration from both students and colleagues.

Patsy enjoyed reading, painting, and playing the piano.  Additionally, Patsy devoted much of her time to studying and journalizing the Bible.  However, above all else, Patsy cherished moments spent with her only grandchild, Nicole. Their bond was one filled with unconditional love that brought immense happiness to both of them.

She was an active member of the Eastern Star, Chapter 396 in Glenwood, where she held various leadership positions.  Patsy’s dedication to the organization allowed her to forge lifelong friendships and make lasting memories.  Patsy was a member of the Amity First Baptist Church.  Above all, Patsy was a loving wife, mother and grandmother, whose devotion to her family was always her first priority.  Although she is no longer with us, Patsy's memory will forever be cherished by her family.

She is survived by her loving husband of 65 years, Joe Willie Burke of Glenwood; her two sons, Joe Burke II and Robert Burke, both of Glenwood; her daughter and son-in-law, Catherine and Mike Price of Mount Ida; and her very much loved and adored granddaughter, Nicole Price.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 PM, Friday, September 29, 2023, in the Smith Family Funeral Home Chapel, Glenwood with Bro. John McAnally officiating.

A visitation will be held on Friday from 2:00 PM until 3:00 PM, prior to the services in the Smith Family Funeral Home Chapel, Glenwood located at 209 North 3rd Street, Glenwood, AR 71943.

Interment will be in the Grant's Chapel Cemetery, Bonnerdale.

Pallbearers will be Scott Green, Richard Hartness, Richard Holcombe, Jeff Price, Joshua Price and Luther Snow.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt appreciation to the nurses and staff of the Montgomery County Nursing Home for the wonderful and loving care they gave our precious Patsy for the past three years.

Guest registry is at www.smithfamilycares.com.