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Samuel Burke Obituary
SHREVEPORT, LA - Memorial services for Samuel Francis Burke, Jr., M.D., 63, will be held at 3:00 PM on Wednesday, December 23, 2009 at St. James Episcopal Church 2050 Bert Kouns. Officiating will be Father William Bryant. Visitation with the family will be held from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Tuesday, December 22, 2009, at Rose-Neath Southside Funeral Home.
Dr. Burke was born in Thomaston, Georgia, to Lucy Mae Bragg and Samuel Francis Burke, Sr., on August 3, 1946. After losing a long, courageous battle with cancer, he passed away on December 19, 2009, in his home.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife Marilyn Lee Burke, and his son Samuel Francis Burke III. Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Julianne (Anne) Hamby Burke; sons, Christopher Burke and Dustin LaLena; daughters, Stephanie Burke Dunbar, Amy LaLena Buell, Haley Burke, and Whitney Burke; and grandchildren, Marilyn Dunbar, Christy Burke, Sydney Dunbar, Julianne LaLena, Jackie Burke, and Zoee Buell.
Dr. Burke graduated from Georgia Tech in 1969 with a BS in Applied Biology. During his time as a student he was heavily involved with the athletic department and was later inducted into the GA Tech Sports Hall of Fame as head student trainer.
He then went on to the Medical College of Georgia and obtained his M.D. in 1973. After completing his residency in Virginia, he began his medical practice in his home state of Georgia and eventually moved with his family to Shreveport.
Dr. Burke was a practicing physician specializing in obstetrics/gynecology and Infertility. In his years of working with Willis-Knighton Healthcare Systems, he served as president of the Medical Staff. At the time of his death, Dr. Burke was serving as the physician advisor for medical staff services, secretary of the Willis-Knighton Medical Staff, chairman of the Bylaws Committee, chairman of the Medical Records Committee, and chairman of the Physicians Network Governing Council. Dr. Burke was a trusted friend and confidant to the Willis-Knighton Medical Staff. In recognition of his many years of service, the Samuel Francis Burke Jr, MD Award for Extraordinary Service was established in his honor by the Willis-Knighton medical staff.
He was a long-standing member of the American Kennel Club, serving in multiple roles as a breeder, judge, and delegate. In addition, he served 5 years as the President of the Doberman Pinscher Club of America and received a Lifetime Achievement Award. At the time of his death, he was serving on the Board of the Animal Welfare Commission.
Dr. Burke was a loving father and devoted husband. He and his wife enjoyed travelling and visited many parts of the world together. He also enjoyed gardening, fishing (especially in Alaska), and raising and breeding black angus cattle. Rose-Neath Funeral Home
Southside Chapel (318) 687-1256
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Memories and Condolences
for Samuel Burke
Sponsored by anonymous.
J.larrie Smith
August 19, 2025
Sam,
Just a note to say that I still frequently think about you my friend. I am so glad our lives touched while you were in West Point, GA. May light perpetual continue to shine upon you in the Audit Eternal.
J. Larrie Smith+
Billy Miller
November 22, 2012
Happy Thanksgiving! I am forever grateful for your friendship.
Billy Miller
August 15, 2012
I miss you Dr. Sam! You were always the person who new what to say and how to say it. I am alwaya surprised at the number of times that I reach for my phone to call you. No doubt about it, you were one of the greatest.
March 31, 2011
Sam,
I still miss you to this day and think about you always. I suppose that will never change, no matter how many years pass since last we embraced, as Cheri and I said goodbye to you and Anne at the door to your room in Topeka that day. Sleep softly, my friend and brother. Until we meet again.
With love always,
Jeff
Roxanne Jarvis
July 29, 2010
Dear Mrs. Burke,
It was only through trying to find Dr. Burke's address that I came upon this very sad news of Dr. Burke's passing. I was going to send him a picture of my daughter (that he delivered) in 1982. We had since left Shreveport about 15 years ago, but I loved him dearly. I felt so out of place when we first moved to the area and Dr. Burke was always so sweet and funny. I am so deeply sorry to hear of his passing. He was a great man and a wonderful doctor.
In fact, that little doll "Dr. Burke" that used to sit in his office was made by me. He really got a kick out of that thing. . .
I guess from where he sits now he already knows my daughter is having a baby. With much love and sympathy,
Alvin Tabug
March 2, 2010
I only found out today after trying to look for him on Facebook. I met him when he went to the Philippines to judge the Philippine Dobermann Nationals and gave the Best in Show award to my Dobe. Thanks Doc for the wonderful memory you gave to our family! God Bless you and your family.
January 8, 2010
Anne
My sympathy to you and your family. I remember Dr. Burke's happiness when the two of you married. His kindness and courage are appreciated by many.
Amy McGhee
Lisa Parker
January 5, 2010
Dr. Burke was my doctor for over 25 years. I loved his frankness and his ability to make me laugh. He had a no-nonsense way about him. It will be nearly immpossible for me to find a Dr. that I am more comfortable with than him. Much Love.
Leslie Ray
January 1, 2010
Dear Anne and Family,
I was so sad to hear of Dr. Burke's passing. He was my doctor for many years and delivered my three children- 22, 18 and 15 all by c-section. He said I had a "Burke cut" it was a little off center. He always had a great sense of humor that made the visits memorable. He will be missed!
Sarah Wilkerson
December 31, 2009
Dr. Burke was a fantastic doc. He will be greatly missed.
Mara Lyn Hill
December 31, 2009
Anne and Family: I am so sorry for your lost. Dr. Burke was my doctor for over 30 years and I will miss him dearly. My visits with him were highlights in my life - I loved his jokes and dry wit. On my last visit a few months ago, I had my daughter with me that he delivered in January, 1991. He jokingly said, "We're not taking any returns today!" Even in his time of stress he found time to be the 'old Sam' I knew and loved. My prayers are with you and your family.
Melissa Mitchell
December 30, 2009
Thank you Dr. Burke for making my 20 years at WK South a wonderful journey. Thank you for delivering my baby Mikayla who is now 14! You have been a blessing and I will miss you greatly. Work at WK will never be the same.
You will forever be missed.
Love Melissa HIM South
December 29, 2009
Anne and Family,
Our thoughts are with you and your family. Dr. Burke was a jewel and he will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family.
Cheryl Williams
Linnie and Amanda Martinez
December 28, 2009
Anne and Family, We are so sorry to hear about your lost. Dr. Burke was a great doctor and he will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and all your loved ones.
Beverly Henry
December 26, 2009
I am so very shocked and sorry to hear of Sam's passing. I have known him since he was in Med School back in 1967. Like my late husband and myself, Sam was one of the founding members of the Atlanta Doberman Pinscher Club. So I knew him in his 'other life' - the dog show side.
My sympathy goes out to his wife and family.
December 24, 2009
Anne and Family. I am so sorry for you loss. I had the honor of working with Sam when he first came to Shreveport. He loved his family and his patients. He gave so much happiness to so many others.
Sally King-Brown
Harold and Brenda Barron
December 24, 2009
Anne and Family,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. Sam (Bo to those of us from Thomaston) will be missed by so many. He was always a good friend and I was fortunate to always be invited to his famous birthday parties. He was in school with Brenda and me and graduated with me in '64.
He accomplished much in his life and gave so much of himself to his family,patients, and his community.
Judy Taravella
December 23, 2009
I worked for Dr. Burke from 1984 to 1988. He picked on me bacause I was a yankee but it was always in good fun. I also used Dr. Burke as my gynecologist. Because I thought he's the best, why not. Well, he found a bad pap smear and it would have eventually turned into cancer - That was in 1988. He performed the surgery which saved my life - for the first time. When my husband passed away in 2001, I went into a deep, deep depression and he counseled me until I was back to my old self again. He saved my life again. He always kidded me, Judy, if you don't get out and socialize, I'm going to write your name and phone number on the men's room wall! He was such a kind and caring person. I will miss him dearly. And Anne, my thoughts and prayer are with you and your family at this time. Love, Judy Taravella
Steve Carswell
December 23, 2009
Bo was in my Cub Scout pack and we were in the same class of '64 at R. E. Lee. I had heard he was sick but had no idea of the severity. My sympathy to Anne and his family.
Gary Whatley
December 23, 2009
Dr.Burke will be missed by all of his friends at Willis-Knighton where he spent much of his professional life and was instrumental in providing many of the policies for patient excellence.
Brian
December 23, 2009
Dr. Burke delivered both of my daughters. He was exceptional doctor as well as a sacastically funny human being. I always loved going to his office with my wife. He will be sorely missed. It it weren't for him it would not have two beautiful healthy daughters. Thank you Dr. Burke for you years of service to the women and children of the Ark-La-Tex.
Glenda Dinkins
December 23, 2009
I am very sorry to hear about Bo's untimely passing. I have alot of good memories of him in high school. He was such an outstanding student. Our family sends our deepest sympathy and love to you and your family. Mrs.Glenda Bell Dinkins
Liz Haws
December 22, 2009
Dr Burke helped me have my twins that are 21 now. Thank you. He was a great doctor and will live in his patients' hearts forever. My prayers are with you all. Liz Haws.
December 22, 2009
Dear Anne,
Bo and I were "mascots" of the R.E. Lee Band when we were only four years old. Even then he was impressive in that uniform with his high hat and directing baton. He was a great friend
through high school, and I regret that we lost touch through the years. Know that he brought joy and honor to his hometown classmates and friends and that he will always be in our memory.
Brenda Knight Murphy
Albany, Georgia
Claire Jenkins Johnson
December 22, 2009
Anne and family: It is with a deep sadness that I send my sincere expression of sympathy to you in the death of my childhood friend, "Bo"! We grew up together in Thomaston and shared many memorable times all through our school years. It was always so good to see you and him at our reunions. Know that he will be missed by his Thomaston friends and remembered with smiles.
Joshua Murphrey
December 22, 2009
Anne Honey,
How sorry I am for you and the family and I really wish I could be there for Sam's memorial. I have so many memories of Sam over the last 16 years and he is a part of our family that will be very, very missed. The last memory I have of him was from Thanksgiving '07. He was full of life, jokes, up to his trademark repartee. That is the way I will remember him. What a wonderful husband he was to you and an incredible stepfather to Dustin and Amy. I'm glad I got to be his nephew. Love you.
Luanne Helms
December 22, 2009
Anne,
How saddened I was to hear that Bo had lost his battle with cancer. What a fighter he was!! I grew up with Bo, and Miss Lucy and Mr. Sam were dear friends of my parents--what fond memories I have of him!! We graduated together from R. E. Lee and how much fun we had in elementary school and high school. Also, he planned some wonderful class of 64 reunions for all of us and was missed greatly at the last one in October. Please know many in Thomaston loved the Burke family and we send much love to all of you.
Luanne Daniel Helms
Richard and Tom Black
December 22, 2009
We (My twin) brother and I were in the first grade together at R.E.Lee grammar and have known each other all our lives....sorry to hear the sad news ...the last time I saw Bo, he and his wife were coming back from Buenos Aires...on my flight....Bo we will forever miss you ...The Black twins...
Becky Watts
December 22, 2009
Anne: I want to express my deepest sympathy to you and your family at this time. Bo will be missed very much in his hometown of Thomaston, GA among his many friends and classmates. He holds a special place in our hearts. He was a deer friend and crerished his days growing up and attending school here. I hope he knew how much we cared about him. We will continue to keep you and your family in our prayers.
Howard & Betty Aucoin
December 22, 2009
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2009
Renee' McCuller
December 22, 2009
Anne and Family:
Dr. Burke was a kind compassionate man full of wisdom and vigor. He shared with many families the joys and also the not so joyous occasions of infertility. He would give 110% and expect the same out of his patients.
I will be forever grateful that he was my OB...my prayers to you and your family. He will be missed by so many.
Renee' McCuller
Nanette Kemmerly
December 22, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.I will always remember Dr.Burke and his kindness toward me and my family.He will be missed.
Angie & Jim Harris
December 22, 2009
Anne & Family - I am so sorry, please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you. Sam made the visits to the doctor fun and I always looked forward to the banter. He will truly be missed.
Helen Smith
December 22, 2009
Anne, Bo and I graduated from R.E.Lee together in 1964. He was devoted to his classmates and even planned several reunions for us. I am deeply sorry for your loss but hope that wonderful memories will be a consolation to you. My prayers will be with you and your family.
Debbie James
December 22, 2009
Anne and Family, You are in my thoughts and prayers. We have lost one of the most remarkable and caring doctors and friend. He was my doctor for 30 years and was such an angel. Remember he will always be with you and remember his wonderful smile.
Jane Hosack
December 22, 2009
Dr. Sam Burke made a many a couple into a family with a child. Sam will be greatly missed by many people. I will miss his sense of humor.
Julie Harrison
December 22, 2009
There will always be a place for Dr. Sam Burke in the hearts of his friends and Patients. This man, physician, was extraordinary in his profession. I talk of him often in my work place as a school nurse. After losing several babies, Dr.Burke and God worked a duet to bring forth my miracle baby. He even sang an old church hymn during the delivery. Later he came to church for the dedication of that baby and to tell of the true miracle it was. That was 28 years ago and 2 more babies. I will never forget him, he was a one of a kind man. I thank God that He led me to his practice, and now they are permanently working together!
Debra Evans
December 22, 2009
Anne and family
I am truly sorry to help about Sam, I will miss his stories and jokes. I loved talking to you both, on his visit. I amd glad I got him to smile his last visit, I will miss that.
Jeanette Owens
December 22, 2009
Dr. Burke was my doctor for many years. I was deeply saddened to learn of his passing. He will be greatly missed. I will forever miss his dry wit and wonderful sense of humor. May God bless the family and comfort their hearts in the time of great loss.
Nancy Norris
December 22, 2009
Anne & family - You are in my thoughts and prayers. I will truly miss Dr. Burke. He had been my doctor for about 29 yrs and was more than a doctor he was my friend. He went above and beyond the call of duty. I enjoyed coming so I could always bring him goodies especially peppermint candy! He always asked about our kids and had such a caring heart!! May God give you strength as you face the days and weeks ahead!
Michelle McClure
December 21, 2009
My condolences to the family. Dr. burke has been my doctor for over 20 years and will miss him dearly. He always had a way to make you feel comfortable when talking with him about everything. I feel blessed to have been able to get to know him have him involved with my care. May God bless you and help you charish your memories of him.
Lisa Mattingly
December 21, 2009
Dr. Burke was my dr for 16 years and assisted in the delivery of my daughter and son. He also helped me through a difficult time when I lost my first child and related his own story of losing his son. He was caring and compassionate and he had a wonderful sense of humor. I will miss him. I just saw him last month and I hope he knew how much I appreciated all he did for me over the years. My prayers are with his family in their time of loss.
Lenora De Lude
December 21, 2009
Anne and family, I was so sorry to hear of Dr. Burke's passing. He was my doctor for about 28 years and delivered my son, as he did so many others. I have never known a more thorough and conscientious doctor, and I'm so glad I told him as much while he was still here. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Margaret Thompson
December 21, 2009
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
December 21, 2009
Anne,
You and your family are in my prayers. I know Sam will be missed by all of you. May God bless each of you and comfort you during this time of loss. I love you like a sister.
Jeri Bennett Dupree
December 21, 2009
Anne, I just found out this morning. I am so very sorry. My heart breaks for you. Dr. Burke was a trusted friend, advisor, and the only MD I have seen since I was a young girl. We will be keeping you in our prayers. Melonie
December 21, 2009
I will miss him greatly! He has always been there as my doctor and my friend. My heart and thoughts are with each of you.
M'Liss McMinn
Karen Berry
December 21, 2009
My heart is heavy with the loss of my dear friend. He was an amazing doctor, a man of great integrity and character and a precious friend. I will miss you Sam Burke.
Bill Allabaugh
December 21, 2009
Anne and Family,
I am sorry for your loss and I know Sam will be missed for he was great man and Doctor. I will always remember him most for his caring of animals and his tender heart towards them. What I will miss the most is that mischievous smile and his sense of humor. Heaven will be richer with his presence.
December 21, 2009
Dr Burke,
I was at one time your oldest patient, I saw you when you were in Virginia and then when I moved here I started seeing you here. You delivered my son 20 yrs ago. I will miss you.
Love ya,
Debra Burns
Lesle Reynolds
December 21, 2009
If it were not for Dr. Burke, I would not have three beautiful children. I don't know how he put up with me. Dr. Burke you are now and always be special to me. May God Bless your family at this difficult time.
Diane Snedegar Bolen
December 21, 2009
Anne, I'm so sorry about Sam and know you've all been through a tough journey throughout his illness. We live in Texas now and it's been a long time since I've gone to him. But Sam was the only doctor I've ever gone to that made going to the doctor FUN! But more than fun, he also LISTENED and really cared about our personal lives. You will be in my thoughts.
December 21, 2009
Whitney, Anne & Family,
What a wonderful picture of Dr. Sam! I have great memories of hanging out at your house and Sam never cared how many wild kids were there. Please know that you are in my prayers.
Love you,
Erin Brown Hanson
Angela Haacker
December 21, 2009
Dr. Burke has a special place in my life. He delivered my triplet boys 12 years ago and could tell them a part from the day they were born. He wore a special tie the day after they were born and many times after when he knew I had an appointment. He said they were the only triplets he ever delivered. I will always be grateful to him for such a great pregnancy. He was very matter fact and the best doctor you could have. I will miss him.
Kathy Johnson
December 21, 2009
Anne and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss of a great husband and father. Dr. Burke will be greatly missed by so many people whose life he touched. He was a great doctor and as well a great friend to me for about 30 years. May the Peace of God be with you in this time of sorrow. Thinking and praying for you all.
December 21, 2009
Sam was a special doctor and will be missed greatly. He gave my daughters two beautiful daughters - my granddaughters who are now ages 20 and 18. He treated this old woman and loved calling me grandma. Thank you,Sam, for your care.
Jean Speight
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