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BORN
1972
DIED
2020
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Brian Burks Obituary
01/10/1972 - 06/06/2020
Brian Craig Burks Sr. was born on January 10, 1972, to Henrietta and Edward Burks II in Toledo, OH. Brian departed this life on Saturday, June 6, 2020, at Flower Hospital, after an extended illness. He was preceded in death by both parents.
Brian graduated from St. Francis de Sales in 1990 and attended Bowling Green State University, graduating in 1995 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education. He attended University of Toledo and earned a Master's Degree in Specialized Education in 2000. Brian immediately began working in his field, as a special education teacher for middle school children attending Toledo Public Schools. Where he worked for nearly 20 years. He was in management for the Ohio Teaching Family Association where he worked with young men ages eight to 21. He was an Advocate for youth on probation with the Youth Advocate Program and an Assistant director at the Boys and Girls Club of Toledo. Brian devoted his career to making positive changes in his student's lives. Brian was also a serial entrepreneur, owning several properties and businesses. Most recently, in 2014 Brian owned and operated Fatboyz Bar in East Toledo. The neighborhood sports bar welcomed everyone and provided the community with five years of entertainment and connectivity.
Brian was dedicated to giving back to his community. He was an excellent provider and went out of his way to meet the needs of his family and friends. Brian will be remembered as a patient man who was supportive of the dreams and goals of those whom others gave up on. Brian spent his free time assisting others as a volunteer in a wide variety of organizations. He coached All Ohio Respect, an AAU boys basketball team. He was a staunch supporter of the Wayman Palmer YMCA; providing time, talent and treasure to the Y and the families that use the facility.
Brian is survived by his former spouse, Dawn; their children, Brian "Julio" Burks Jr. Johnathan "Cheese" Burks and Brandon "Snoop" Burks; his older siblings. Edward III, Gary (Gloria), Victoria and Victor Burks; a host of nieces and nephews, including special nephew, Reuben Burks (Kateri); and his fiancé, Dana Whitfield. Brian's sons ask that you honor their father by always showing love for your family and community.
Services are Thursday, June 18, 2020, with an 11:00 am wake and 12:00 pm funeral at Southern Missionary Baptist Church.
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Memories and Condolences
for Brian Burks
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Joe McNamee
October 10, 2025
To the burks family. My name Joe McNamee and Mr Brian burks was my school teacher at deveaux jr high. I just wanted to come on here and express my condolences and to let you know how sorry I am... Brian changed my life for the better. He helped me in so many ways back when I was in school. I managed to stay clean and out of trouble my whole life. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for teaching me right from wrong and for also the way I am today. I wouldn´t be the person I am today If I didn´t have a teacher like Mr Brian burks. I still to this day remember Brian snapping his fingers and pointing at me with a grin on his face in mornings when I would walk in the door at school, he would say, Joe it´s going to be a good day. I loved him, he was my favorite teacher. I loved when he would sing, shes a bad mama Jama, then he would stop singing and I´d finish the rest of the song, fine as can be. I hope Mr burks family is doing ok. I pray for peace and healing and comfort for you. I´m so sorry. Rest in peace to the best teacher in the entire world, MR BRIAN BURKS, gone but never forgotten. I love you all. I´m sorry I missed his funeral.
Chrystal Hill
June 17, 2021
He is always on my mind ! Thank you for letting me be your caregiver
Love to your family Brian
Chrystal (regency )
Laurie Forgette
June 17, 2020
Brian worked with my son Robert at UT and S.A.I.L. many years ago. He was the most polite, kindest person I know. His smile lit up the room and he was such a joy to talk to. He would pick up Robert and carry him on his shoulder. I still have a poster of Barney that Brian's sister made. What a terrible loss. Sending my condolences to his family.
kim
June 17, 2020
Prayers to the family. God Bless
Linda L. Boyd-Reese
June 17, 2020
Brian was a very polite young man with a smile when he greeted me and others. And he didn't mind hugging. Even though I had not seen you in a while since you visited Payne AMEC, I will miss you. To the families, keep him close in your hearts and know that he is fine now with his beloved parents etc. To his children, remember what he taught you and know that God and him are having many conversations. To God be the Glory. Love The Boyd, Reese, & Bailey's families.
ELAINE KYLE
June 17, 2020
Worked with Brian as a counselor prior to my retirement from Toledo Public Schools. He utilized every service available to enhance the academic and emotional achievements of his students. This young man sincerely cared. My deepest sympathy to the Burks family. May fond memories help to bring you comfort as will mine.
Darris and Dorine Mosley
June 17, 2020
Gary, Gloria and Burks Family: We are sorry to hear of Brian's passing. May God hold you all in His Loving Arms.
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