Anthony “Tony” Burkley

Obituary For Anthony "Tony" Martin Burkley

Anthony Martin Burkley, affectionately known as "Tony," passed away on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at the age of 88. Born in 1937 in Port Arthur, Texas, just before the start of World War II, Tony was the son of humble and earnest parents, Elias Martin Burkley and Rita C. Taylor Breaux. He was raised in a lively and active home alongside seven siblings and was known from a young age for his ingenuity, resourcefulness, boyish curiosity, frugality and above all else: strong spirit.

Tony proudly served in the United States Navy, a career that spanned a few decades and included two tours during the Vietnam War and service during the Korean Conflict. His military career took him around the globe multiple times, and he often remarked, "Well, you know, I've traveled the world three times over by now!" After retiring from the Navy, he continued to travel for leisure, with his favorite international trip being to Cairo, Egypt- and his most preferable domestic destination always being Las Vegas NV.

After his final naval station brought him to Washington State, Tony met his attentive, dutiful second wife, Karen Burkley, in the early 1980's. He had previously been widowed following the passing of his beautiful high-school sweetheart (first) wife, Alice May Burkley, with whom he had three daughters. He and Karen went on to raise two more daughters in Auburn WA.

A dedicated and hardworking man, Tony spent much of his post-military life helping fellow veterans reintegrate into civilian life. He offered job counseling, support with basic needs, and mentorship, ensuring that those who served their country were not forgotten.

In 2001, after the graduation of his youngest daughter, Tony relocated to Rio Rancho NM, where he spent his final years. There, he found a strong community of friends and neighbors and became an active and beloved member of The Heights Church of Christ in Albuquerque NM, where he received guidance and mentorship from Preacher Johnny Stringer.

Tony is survived by his former wife, Karen Burkley; his daughters Dorisse Burkley, Ramona (Michael) Reardon, Antoinette (Stuart) Burkley-Palmer, and Monique (Mario) Gonzalez; his younger sister, Nola West; as well as many stepchildren, numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elias and Rita Burkley; his beloved grandmother, Mary Ozenya Breaux of Seattle WA; his cherished firstborn daughter, Yvette Boutros; and seven of his eight siblings, including Elias Burkley (Jr.), Gerald Burkley, Mickey Burkley, Carolyn Burkley, Joan Lewis, Lillie West- Tilley, and Billy West.

A private burial service will be held on Monday, August 4, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. at Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent WA.

Memorial contributions may be made to [the local eye bank or burn center].

Anthony "Tony" Burkley lived a full and meaningful life marked by service, travel, adventure, and faith. His gregarious nature meant that he never met a stranger -and he will be honored in the upcoming days and weeks by all who have had the distinction of getting to know him.