Curlie "Bay" Burks

Curlie Lee Burks, affectionately called “Bay” by his family. He was born March 11, 1937 to Arthur Lee and Toby Mae Burks.  He accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at a young age and united with the Benevolence Baptist Church in Benevolence, Georgia. 

On September 15, 1956, Curlie married the love of his life; Lula Starling in Georgia.  The newlyweds would later relocate to Cincinnati, Ohio.  To this union the Lord blessed them with two daughters. 

He worked for 15 years at Valley Barge Line.  In 1980, Curlie started his own metal recycling business.  He used his business to help and mentor young boys, namely; his nephews, great nephews and grandsons.  He taught them the value of hard work and providing for ones family. 

Curlie worked hard and he also enjoyed the pleasures of life.  He loved fishing, watching boxing, vending at flea markets and spending time with family and friends, especially his grandchildren. 

He is preceded in death by parents; Arthur Lee and Toby Mae Burks, sister; Rose Mary Burks, brothers and sisters-in-law; Moses (Geraldine) Burks, Eddie (Louise) Burks and Arthur (Ora) Burks and brother-in-law; Henry Walton.

On July 1, 2019, Curlie gained his wings at his residence surround by his loving family.  He lived a life that could never die but will live on in the hearts and mind of all who knew and loved him. 

Curlie leaves to cherish his memory a loving and devoted wife of 62 years; Lula Burks, two daughters; Deborah Murray and Tabitha (Sean) Lunsford all of Cincinnati, OH, three brothers; Roy (Martha) Burks, Johnny Lee (Doris) Burks and Floyd (Dorthea) Burks all from Cuthbert, GA, six sisters; Beulah (Henry) Walton of Shellman, GA, Bertha (Mamadou) Wade, Susie (Abdourahmane) Sy both from Cincinnati, OH, Lillie (Lucious) Marcus of Cuthbert, GA, Carolyn (Tommie) Lewis of Midland, GA and Janie (James) Edward of Cuthbert, GA, 13 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.  

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