Burl McCosh Obituary
Burl Eugene McCosh, Jr., 77, of Marietta, Georgia, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at Emory University Hospital.
Visitation will be held on Friday, October 10th from 5:00–7:00 p.m. at Darby Funeral Home, and again on Saturday, October 11th from 10:00–11:00 a.m. at Shiloh Hills Baptist Church. A celebration of his life will follow at 11:00 a.m., with Dr. Vic Bledsoe officiating. Interment will take place at Georgia National Cemetery on Friday, October 31st at 10:00 a.m.
Burl was born to Burl Eugene and Ila McCosh and was also lovingly raised by his stepmother, Dot McCosh. He was preceded in death by his parents, stepmother, and his sister, Rosemary Phelps.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Shelly McCosh of Marietta, GA; daughters Greer (Evan Baker) McCosh of Hoover, AL; Darby (Cody) Fessenden of Acworth, GA; Riley (Chase) Blount of Acworth, GA; and son Bem (Cheryl) McCosh of Houston, TX. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Tom Phelps; niece Mary Susan Roorda; nephews Tom Phelps and Ben Phelps; and nine beloved grandchildren - Theodore Blount, Goldie Blount, Liam Fessenden, Rhys Fessenden, Tatum Baker, Landyn Baker, Maeve McCosh, Emmet McCosh, and Eile McCosh - who lovingly knew him as Pop Pop. His 10th grandhild is due soon.
Burl dedicated more than 30 years to the nuclear power industry, where he traveled to every nuclear power plant in the United States and several countries abroad, assisting with nuclear training programs. His passion for learning and teaching left a lasting mark on his colleagues and the industry as a whole.
Beyond his professional life, Burl lived with purpose and curiosity. He loved to travel the world, explore nature, fish and hunt, and was deeply involved in his community and church. He served faithfully as a Trustee of Shiloh Hills Baptist Church and Chairman of the Board at Shiloh Hills Christian School. He was also an active member of the Christian Writers Guild and the Native Plant Society of Georgia, reflecting his love for both creation and creativity.
Burl will be remembered as a man of faith, integrity, and adventure - a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and trusted friend. His wisdom, humor, and gentle spirit will continue to inspire all who knew him.
"Well done, good and faithful servant." – Matthew 25:23
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Ralph Coughenour
November 4, 2025
I am sorry to hear that Burl has passed away. The last time I saw him was at our 50th HS Reunion, and was looking forward to seeing him again next year for our 61st. I have known Burl, since we were kids our, dads worked together for many yrs. My condolences to the family
Robert Rodriguez
October 13, 2025
I'm extremely sad to hear about Burl's passing last week. I have been a friend of Burl's for many years since he came to work at INPO. We used to go out to eat with the wives on many occasions where we told stories of trips and exciting places we had visited. Burl was a great easy-going guy, with high standards in his personal and work life and he had great faith. We all will be missing him.
Dave Igyarto
October 11, 2025
I am saddened to hear about Burl´s passing. We first met around 35 years ago when we were trying to get our training programs in shape at Perry. Years later Burl shared his experience and knowledge with me when I joined INPO. Burl was a pleasure to work with and fun to be around. Shelly, I wish you and your family all the best during this sad time.
Steve Johnson
October 10, 2025
Saddened to hear of Burl's passing. Burl was a pleasure to work with over our many years at INPO. He would often quickly transition from a work discussion to planning his next theme park vacation with his family. Burl had his priorities in order. May God bring you and your family peace.
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Joe White
October 10, 2025
I am sad to hear of Burl´s passing. I had the privilege of working with Burl when I first joined INPO in 2011. From day one, Burl welcomed me with his friendly, outgoing personality and was always willing to help. He generously shared his wealth of knowledge and experience, making a lasting impact on me and on so many others in the industry. Burl´s kindness, wisdom, and sense of humor will be deeply missed. My thoughts are with his family and loved ones.
Dr Elery M (Rusty) Shoemaker
October 10, 2025
Very sad news for all of us - I know it´s a great transition for Burl who is now in the presence of his Lord & Savior Jesus!!! We will all have a very happy reunion in the future when the rest of us transition to Heaven!!! I have many fond memories of traveling with Burl - my first trip at INPO back in 1995 & many others including a great trip to South Africa! God Bless Shelly & the Girls plus others who will always have great memories of Burl!!!
Dr Elery M (Rusty) Shoemaker
Mary McCoy Owenby
October 10, 2025
It saddens me to hear of Burl´s passing, but I am certain that He is with Jesus and has joined family and friends. May our Lord give you peace and comfort through these difficult days.
Mary McCoy Owenby
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