Barbara Coram Burke

May 16, 1936 - Jan 8, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Barbara Coram Burke on January 8th, 2025. Born in Winston-Salem, NC, in 1936 to Mary Ruth Coram and Walter Ott Coram, Barbara led a life marked by love, dedication, and community. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Billy E. (Bill) Burke, with whom she shared many happy years.

Barbara is survived by her two children, Tanya M. Sellars (Charles) and Paul V. Martin (Lisa Saunders), and her adored grandchildren: William C. Colvill, Connor M. Colvill, Walter M. Sellars, Scott Martin, Mandy Martin, Kristen Martin, and Matthew Martin.

She is also survived by her siblings, Jerry G. Coram Sr. (Barbara) and Judy C. Hamilton (Fred); and her nieces and nephews: Wendy Spainhour (Dean), Jerry Coram Jr. (Kristi), Melissa Nichols (Clint), Holly Smith (Trevor), and Craig Hamilton (Emily;) and her cousins Johnny Shepard (Glenda) and Marion Weeks (Nate). Barbara maintained a close relationship with Bill's daughter, Billie Snively, and her children, Taylor, Lily, and Cameron.

Barbara graduated from East Bend High School in 1954 and from Mars Hill College in 1956. Barbara's love for sports was evident in her participation in bowling, softball, and especially golf. These activities brought joy and camaraderie into her life. Professionally, she dedicated 16 years to working with Allan Gitter at the law firm of Womble, Carlyle, Sandridge & Rice in Winston-Salem, where she was known for her diligence and expertise.

For 42 years, Barbara treasured her annual trips to the beach with her close-knit group of friends, affectionately known as her "beach bum" companions: Peggy Grainger, Lynn Hester, Helen Hester, Pat Kight, and Marie Rodden. These summers were filled with laughter, friendship, and unforgettable memories.

Upon marrying Bill, Barbara moved to Wagram, NC, where she worked part-time for various law firms and enjoyed extensive rounds of golf. Barbara developed many close friendships while living in the Deercroft community in Wagram.

A celebration of Barbara's life, officiated by the Reverend John E. Hackworth, Jr., will be held on Saturday, January 18th, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Robinhood Baptist Church, 5422 Robinhood Road, Winston-Salem, NC. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Robinhood Road Baptist Church or Second Harvest Food Bank, 3330 Shorefair Drive NW, Winston-Salem, NC 27105.

Barbara's warm and welcoming spirit, her unwavering commitment to her family, and her love for life's simple pleasures will be deeply missed. Her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Send condolences online at www.salemfh.com.

Salem Funeral Home

2951 Reynolda Rd., Winston-Salem, NC 27106

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Winston-Salem Journal on Jan. 12, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Barbara Burke

Sponsored by Salem Funerals & Cremations - Reynolda Rd..

3 Entries

Larry Dezern

January 13, 2025

Judy, Jerry and family wishing you all love and peace at this sad time. Judy you and I were in same grade at East Bend School. I was kind of struck on you, then you moved away. Jerry, I remember Bonnie and you. My sister Nell and Barbara were good friends. My thoughts and Prayers are with you all.

Phyllis grubbs

January 12, 2025

Many years ago i met barbara. She was such a sweet person and was besutiful inside and out. I hadn't seen her in many years. Prayers for her entire family at rhis rime of grief. May god give you grace, comfort and strength in this great loss. Proverbs 3:5-6.

Toby Butner Sink

January 12, 2025

Loved visiting Barbara and her family in East Bend. And, even though older than me, she was always so kind and fun! Wishing Judy, Jerry and all her family love and peace and this sad time.

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