Byron Burks

Byron Ja'kee (Bubba) Burks was born on February 28, 2004, in Rochester, New York. He was the beloved son of Brian Keith Burks and Jackie Hill-Burks. Byron attended OCCAP Head Start, where he quickly melted the hearts of his teachers. He later attended Elba City Schools, where his affectionate smile and spirit captivated everyone he encountered. Byron was a member of the Class of 2022, graduating in the top 10 of his senior class with honors. After graduation, he accepted an academic and athletic scholarship to play football at Doane University in Crete, Nebraska, where he studied engineering. He later transferred to Jacksonville State University in Jacksonville, Alabama. While taking a break he was employed at the Walmart Distribution Center. After Byron received his acceptance letter he had plans to continue his studies at Jacksonville State University in the spring. Throughout his childhood, Byron was a faithful and committed member of the True Apostolic Churches of Jesus Christ, under the leadership of the late Bishop E.H. Hill.

  As a young man, Byron began to develop traits from his father, grandfather, and uncles that would stay with him throughout his life. Byron and his father took their love of fishing to the extreme. He also enjoyed doing mechanical work for family members. Byron was a passionate Georgia Bulldogs fan. He and his father spent many Saturdays watching the games together. 

Byron had many other hobbies, including hanging out with family and friends, gaming, carpentry, and most of all being “fly.” Byron was an extraordinary young man who lived life to the fullest. He was a peacemaker, always de-escalating any confusion or conflict. The impact Byron had on the lives of so many people reflected his true character. Not only did he love his family deeply, but he also cherished his community. The saying “it takes a village to raise a child” truly applied to Byron, as he was nurtured by a loving, dedicated family and a supportive community that helped shape his life. Byron was humble, respectful, kind, and truly an inspiration. What might have been difficult for others came easy to him. Byron was the epitome of a dear child who never gave his parents or anyone any trouble. His smile captured the hearts of everyone he met. 

He’s preceded in death by his maternal grandfather the late Bishop E.H. Hill: Uncle Willie Lewis Hill. His paternal grandparents; Curtis Burks and Betty Joe Burks. Aunts; Betty Joe Sams, Dianne Coleman. Uncles; Bobby, Tony, Tim, and Larry Burks. Host of friends and family. 

He leaves to cherish his fond memories, his loving and devoted parents; Father Brian Keith Burks and mother Jackie Hill-Burks. Six loving siblings; Brandon Flowers, Jacquez (Keyawne) Hill, Breannah Hill, Jada Burks, Janiah Burks, Jabria Burks, and Brison Burks. Eight loving nephews; Jacques Hill Jr, J'san Hill, Neko Reyes, Giannis Burks, Halen Gray Jr, Zalen Gray, Laderis Gray, Deris Gray. Five loving nieces; Braleigh Flowers, Chancelyn Goosby, Brielle Flowers, K'Angel Hill, Camiya Goosby and a host of aunties, uncles, cousins, and friends. 

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