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Bernis Burch Obituary

Rev. Bernis O. Burch, 85, of Christiansburg, passed away on December 3, 2008. He was born in Draper, N.C. (now Eden, N.C.) to John Coleman Burch and Annie Mae Williams Burch. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by four sisters, Grace Fuqua, Bert Foster, and Lillian Storey, of Burlington, N.C., and Margaret Underwood, of Roanoke, Va.; three brothers, John Burch and George Burch, of Burlington, N.C., Paul Burch, of Aiken S.C. He was the last of eight children. He was much loved by his survivors which include his wife of 62 years, Jacqueline Blackwell Burch; a daughter, Antonia Burch, Christiansburg; a son, Christopher Burch and wife, Susan, of Lynchburg, Va.; three grandchildren, Michael Shryock and wife, Lisa, of Acworth, Ga., Connor Burch and Audrey Burch, of Lynchburg, Va.; brother-in-law, Robert Blackwell, of Madison, N.C.; sisters-in-law, Pauline Burch, of Aiken, S.C., and Lillie Mae Burch, of Burlington, N.C.; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was pastor of Faith Missionary Baptist Church, in Christiansburg, Va., from October 2, 1959 to January 31, 1994, to a faithful and loving congregation. A graduate of Piedmont Bible College, he was the author of three books and wrote many other manuscripts, which have not been published. He will be greatly missed by so many friends and especially his family. He served in the Army Air Force from May 10, 1943 to January 1946. Medals for battles and campaigns were: Air Defence Japan, Bismarck Archipelago, New Guinea, South Philippines (Liberation) Luzon, Ryukyus, Air Combat Borner, APT Campaign Medal with eight Bronze Stars, Good Conduct Medal, SO #33, and Victory Medal. Per his request, there will be no visitation. Graveside service will be held at Dan View Cemetery, Eden, N.C., on Saturday, December 6, 2008, at 11 a.m. with Pastor Mike Vest officiating. In lieu of flowers, please consider contributions to Faith Missionary Baptist Church, 475 Clearview Drive, Christiansburg, Va. 24073. The Burch family is being served by Horne Funeral Service, Christiansburg, Va.

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Published by Roanoke Times on Dec. 5, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
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Sonia Hodges

December 7, 2008

I am happy he's with the Lord where he wants to be, I'm sad for all of us who are left here without his amazing spunk and genuine caring. He was a rock for me during many turbulant times as a young person. He was steadfast, always holding me accountable but in a loving, fatherly way. He told me recently that I belonged to him because he saved me from choking to death at VBS when I was 4 years old. He and Jackie have always held a special place in my family's life and they always will. One day we will see him again.

Robert and Marianne Steagall

December 6, 2008

Earth's loss is heaven's gain. We remember Bernice well from days at Piedmont Baptist College and Draper Baptist Church. May our Lord comfort the hearts of all the family.

Gerald Gallimore

December 6, 2008

The entire Burch family is in our thoughts and prayers. May God comfort you all.

Alma Biggs

December 5, 2008

Jacqueline you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Deepest sympathy,
John & Rachel Blackwell South
and family

Carolyn Linkous - Akers

December 5, 2008

Antonia, You and your family are in my prayers during the difficult days ahead. It's been a l-o-n-g time since our high school years, but I remember our friendship with fond memories. Your Dad was truly a man of God, his passing is earth's loss but heaven's gain and always remember that we will see him again someday! Sending hugs and friendship your way today.

Sharon Snapp-Snyder

December 5, 2008

So sorry to hear of your loss. Please know you each are in my thoughts and prayers.
With deepest Sympathy,

Mr. & Mrs. W. Richard Shelton

December 5, 2008

We are sorry to hear of the passing of Rev. Burch. May God comfort you and your family at this time. Hold onto the special times and memories that your shared together.

Amy (Thurman) Cunningham

December 5, 2008

I am so sorry to hear about Pastor Burch's passing. He was such a great man. He lead many to Christ (me included) He will be missed by us all. I am so glad to know that we will see him again in Heaven. If there is anything we can do to help during this sad time please let us know.

Betty Moore

December 5, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

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