Robert Ronald Burgess
Robert Ronald Burgess, lovingly known as Ron, passed away on February 16, 2023, at the age of 79.
Ron, son of Doyle Eugene and Mildred (Sparks) Burgess, was born December 2, 1943 in Memphis, Tennessee.
He was united in marriage on September 17, 1985, and is survived by the love of his life, Suzie (Strong) Burgess. Ron is also survived by his brothers, Rev. Gene Burgess (Heather) of Munford, TN; and Phillip Burgess (Jim Nutter) of Chicago, IL; three children: Mary Lovely (Alex) of Kansas City, MO; Carol Morton (J.J.) of Chicago, IL; and Scott Logan (Christina) of Cincinnati, OH; and five grandchildren: Ellis, Tate, and Harper Lovely; Major Morton; and Aletheia Logan.
During Ron’s years at Memphis State University, he obtained a Bachelor of Science in Psychology in 1967, Master of Education in 1975, Religious Affairs Coordinator 1973-1980, and Doctor of Education (ABD) in 1979. He also served in the United States Army as a medic, Berlin, 1969-1971 and Recipient of Distinguished Service Award. He was a Director of Teen Challenge, Vienna, Austria, 1971-1973. Director of Human Resources for The Peabody Hotel, Memphis, 1980-1981, General Electric/Radio Corporation of America, Memphis, 1981-1986, Executive Director of The Promus Companies / Harris, Memphis, 1986-1999, Senior Vice President Human Resources of Argosy Company, Alton, IL 1999-2004. Senior Vice President Human Resources Isle of Capri, St. Louis, MO 2007-2011.
Ron lived a life that was deeply caring, giving, and committed to helping family and others succeed. He was humble, kind, and had a gracious spirit while enjoying each day to the fullest. He knew there was a plan and purpose for his life, valuing all daily tasks, projects, and time with others. He catered to his wife, children, grandchildren, and wanted the best for our lives-which he provided. In younger years, he used his tenor voice to sing God’s praises at the First Assembly of God Church in Memphis, TN. He worked in his father’s drug store from an early age, which secured him with a strong work ethic for his entire life. Ron had many amazing stories of experiences which illustrated the protection, love, and provision of God in his life. He remained steadfast and overwhelmed by the awesomeness of God’s grace and goodness.
During retirement, Ron spent extraordinary time restoring the Historic Epworth Assembly, later becoming the Christian Retreat-Selah Among the Hills, in support of his wife’s vision. He loved wood-working, antique restoration, landscaping, and gardening.
His family and friends will forever hold a monumental place in their hearts for him and will carry on his legacy with the highest admiration for all he accomplished. Ron’s loved ones are thankful for the warmth of community from all that knew him and grateful he inspired the lives of many.
Ron has been called to the Kingdom of Heaven. His family looks forward to a glorious reunion in the days to come.
A public visitation will be held at Cole Family Funeral Home in Arcadia, Missouri at 2pm, with the memorial beginning at 3pm, on March 4th.
