Ralph Caldwell Burke

Ralph Caldwell Burke, 90, a beloved husband, father and friend, peacefully entered into his heavenly home Saturday afternoon, November 9, 2024, at Wellstar MCG Hospital in Augusta. Ralph was born on September 14, 1934, and was a devoted husband, loving father, and cherished member of his community.

A graduate of Wrens High School, Ralph proudly served his country as a Staff Sergeant in the United States Air Force from August 1953 August 1957. During the Korean War, he was stationed in England, where he worked in Air Traffic Control Systems and Electronics as well as Classified Operations. A true patriot, Ralph held a deep love for his country and maintained an active membership in the local American Legion, reflecting his commitment to service and honor.

After his military service, Ralph pursued a civil service career as an Electronics Engineer with the Department of Defense, which allowed him to travel extensively around the globe. After retiring from civil service, he returned home and continued his engineering career with Jefferson Energy for an additional 15 years.

Ralph’s personal life was marked by a genuine love and devotion to his family. He married his wife, Anne, and enjoyed 37 years of happiness. Ralph captivated others with his engaging storytelling as well as his talent for dancing. 

Ralph's interests included fishing and deer hunting. Having a remarkable green thumb, he took great pleasure in cultivating roses and orchards. A dedicated steward of the land, he enjoyed working on various projects around the farm and prepared fields of sunflowers for dove shoots for family and friends, a testament to his love for the outdoors and nature. His passion extended to teaching and promoting the sport of outdoorsmanship, as he instilled his love for the land and God's creation in those around him.

Ralph was a faithful, life-long member of Ebenezer Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church, where he accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior. He utilized his talents in service to God, giving Him glory in all that he undertook. His encouraging spirit fostered learning and curiosity, particularly in children, embodying a true gentleman with a servant's heart.

Ralph leaves behind his devoted wife, Anne Walker Burke; loving daughter, Dr. Julie Burke; numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family; as well as his church family and a host of friends who will remember him fondly. Honored to be pallbearers include Gordon Burke, Jimmy Burke, Mike Burke, Alton Dye, Gary Dye, Riley Stavely, Robert Stavely and Curt Suddeth. He was preceded in death by his parents, Marie Davis Burke and Thomas Orr Burke, along with his seven siblings: Grier Burke, Elanor Dye, Louise Stavely, Andrew Burke, Thomas Burke, William Burke, and Harry Burke.

Family and friends are invited to visit and pay their respects from 1:00 – 2:00PM Saturday, November 16, 2024, at Ebenezer Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. Funeral services with Rev. David Nowling officiating will commence at 2:00PM, followed by interment, with military honors, in the church cemetery. 

The family suggests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the church he loved—Ebenezer Church, 1518 Ocala Rd, Wrens, GA 30833.

Ralph Caldwell Burke’s remarkable journey through his life touched many lives and he will be dearly missed. His wonderful stories, love for life, and his legacy of kindness, faith, and love will continue to inspire his family, friends and those who had the privilege of knowing him.