Joel K. Burgess

1935 - 2015

BURGESS, Joel K. Joel K. Burgess of Marietta, Georgia passed away on Sunday, April 19 at the age of 79, after an extended illness. Joel was born November 8, 1935 to Fred Burgess and Sarah Maddox Burgess in Grady Hospital. He grew up in Atlanta, attended Grady High School, and continued his education at Clemson University. He went into government service, culminating his career as a computer specialist with the Internal Revenue Service. Upon his retirement he became vice president of Burgess Amusements, Inc. in Marietta, Georgia. Upon selling the business, he and his wife Judith travelled extensively. He became deeply involved in Rivercliff Lutheran Church in Sandy Springs as church treasurer, youth counselor, and Sunday School teacher. He is survived by his wife, Judith; his three daughters, Connie Barrow (James), Deb DeRoche (Steve), Tammy Schoenleb (Bill); grandchildren Wendy Blond (Keith), Daniel DeRoche (Jennifer), Jake Schoenleb and Josh Schoenleb; his great grandson Lucas DeRoche; his sister Margaret Carter. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Fred Burgess, Jr.; brother Rev. Charles Burgess. Viewing will be held Friday, April 24, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Byars Funeral Home, located at 155 Professional Park Dr., Cumming, GA 30040, A memorial service will be held Saturday, April 25th at 3 p.m. at Rivercliff Lutheran Church located at 8750 Roswell Road, Sandy Springs, Georgia 30350, with reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Burgess Memorial at Rivercliff Lutheran Church.