Raymond "Dickie" Burris

After 93 incredibly glorious years, the Groundhog has finally started delivering Dickie his mail.
We are saddened to announce the peaceful passing of Raymond "Dickie" Burris on Friday June 20, 2025.
Dickie was born December 30, 1931 in Kenton Delaware to the late Elmer and Lena (Graham) Burris. Dickie grew up working as a contractor and a farmer. He operated his Dairy farm for 30 years. He owned and operated BW Contractors. Dickie also served as a New Castle County Constable. Anyone who met Dickie immediately recognized his generous nature towards others. He extended his generosity to so many hosting parties, weddings and fundraisers. He was extremely proud of his lifelong work with Ducks Unlimited Appoquinimink Chapter where he hosted numerous luncheons, auctions and sport shooting at his famous "Burris Lodge" on his home farm. He was a three-time Ducks Unlimited Conservationist of the Year.
Ducks Unlimited recently said;
"Raymond Burris's contributions to Delaware Ducks Unlimited were immeasurable. A founding member and two-time chairman of the Appoqunimink Chapter, Raymond's generosity and commitment to conservation led to his recognition as Conservationist of the Year. He generously hosted countless events at his lodge, further demonstrating his dedication. His extraordinary support is reflected in his achievement of the Heritage Sponsor level. We are deeply grateful for his legacy"
In addition to the above, Dickie served on numerous Boards and committees including Cecil County Hounds and Sportsmen's Association, Odessa Fire Company, Southern States, and Blackbird Community Center to name a few. He served and chaired numerous Democratic committees and was a delegate for many years at the Democratic State Convention. He was appointed by the Governor and served on the Delaware Wildlife Advisory Council for several years.
Dickie was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed his time spent in the field accompanied by his friends and his beloved rabbit dogs and hounds. He cherished the memories he made with his hunting partner Nancy (his Black Lab).
Dickie had a love for singing and he could often be heard, in his final weeks singing Hank William's "Cheating Heart" and even "God Bless America." Dickie even cut a record in his younger years, something he was very proud of.
But more than anything, Dickie was known as a jokester. There was nothing he wouldn't do or say to get a laugh. If you were fortunate enough to know Dickie then you knew he had a joke for every occasion. He cherished opportunities to tell someone about his "Dog Jaw." When asked, "How do you feel?? He would get a grin and reply "with my hands." Dickie kept his wit into his final few days. His practical jokes and stories will likely be repeated for countless future generations.
He had that twinkle in his beautiful blue eyes until they closed. He loved everyone, everyone loved him and he will be forever in our hearts.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife Roberta M. Burris in 2000, sisters, Louise Aspril, Ruth Carter and Helen Walker, two brothers, Cooper and Wilson Burris.
He is survived by his companion, Ruth Wooleyhan and his son, William Burris.
He is further survived by his dear friends, Nicky Ferrara and especially Becky Unruh who provided care, comfort and endless support and love throughout Dickie's Golden years. Special thanks to his caregiver Kari who on a daily basis went above and beyond providing him loving care and patience. Kari would frequently assist Dickie caring for his dogs. They would trim bushes on warm days and ride around his farm on the gator. Dickie was also thankful for Marquetta, Felicia, Patty, Bea, Debbie, Ashley and Barb. Thank you to Vitas Hospice along with the nurses and aides at Somerford House for their compassionate care.
Family and friends are invited to attend services on Friday, June 27th at Connection Community Church, 4744 Summit Bridge Rd, Middletown, DE 19709. Visitation will be 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m. Services will begin at 11 a.m. Burial will follow in Old Drawyers Cemetery. All are welcome.
In lieu of flowers, donation can be made in his memory to Appoqunimink Ducks Unlimited 294 Brian Drive, Smyrna, DE 19977 or the Cecil County Hounds & Sportsman Association 607 Wards Hill Road, Warwick MD 21912.