William Burke was born on December 4, 1927 in Kissimmee, Florida. He was the oldest of seven children born to the late John and Lula Mae Burke. Mr. Burke attended the local schools in Kissimmee, and later joined the United States Army. He continued his education and training in the Army, and thereafter; in the area of Air Conditioning and Refrigeration, becoming highly proficient and well respected in the field.  As a result, he received his teacher certification and was later employed at William M. Raines High School.  Mr. Burke was invited to serve on state committees, and contributed to crafting objectives and goals for high school education in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration.  After retiring from the Duval County Public Schools, his skill set led to employment with the International Longshoremen's Association.  

Mr. Burke became known for his ability to train others in the field, and taught aspiring apprentices through a program at Florida Junior College. He was united in holy matrimony to Lillie Mae Burke who preceded him in death. Mr. Burke was the father to three daughters through a previous union.

Mr. Burke departed this life on Monday, February 20, 2017.  

Mr. Burke leaves to cherish his memory, three devoted daughters, Dr. Lillie Granger of Stone Mountain, Georgia, Wilma Burke (Barry), and Ora ReNita Way of Jacksonville, Florida; one brother, Eugene Burke (Helen) of Lakeland, Florida; grandchildren, Jeremiah Way of Jacksonville, Florida and Callie Granger of Stone Mountain, Georgia; a devoted friend and caregiver, Tina Alexander; the Morris Manor Family; and a host of other relatives and friends.

The funeral service for William Burke will be held 1:30 pm SATURDAY, at the Samuel C. Rogers, Jr. Memorial Chapel, 4315 N. Main St. The visitation will be held 5 - 7:00 PM, Friday, at the mortuary.. Interment in Evergreen Cemetery. Please sign the family guest book @ www.tswarden.com. Arrangements in care of Tyrone S. Warden, FDIC, 4315 N. Main Street, 765-1234