James Roby Burk

James Roby Burk, born June 9, 1921 in Seagoville, Texas to Jesse and Alyne Burk, lived a long and adventurous life. He died peacefully surrounded by his family on July 2, 2017. He was married to Nell Burk for over 76 years. Jim is survived by his wife Nell, son Mike and his wife, Ann Burk of Fayetteville, Arkansas, daughter Diane and her husband Jess Butler of Austin, Texas. Grandchildren include Elizabeth Burk Martin, her husband Dan, and their children, Sarah and Roby, Bill Burk and his wife Marjo, and their children, Joe, Jim, and Vada, Dan Butler and his wife Jennifer, and their children, Sullivan, Cashel, and, Finneas, Boomer Butler and his wife Megan, and their children Brady and Meredith, Meagan Butler and numerous other nieces and nephews relatives and friends. Jim was preceded in death by his siblings, Sam Burk, Jesse Lee Burk, Jean May, Mary Cooper, and Bill Burk. After Jim served with the Army Air Force in the Pacific Arena of World War II, he and Nell bought a "mountain" in Arkansas on July 6, 1948. Jim said buying this land near Booneville was the best investment he ever made. They made Booneville their home in 1970, and he and Nell enjoyed living and working on Timber Ridge Farm raising cattle and hay. Jim was a Southern Baptist and active member of the Arkansas Beefmaster Breeder's Association. Jim's family appreciates everyone who has made Booneville a good hometown for Jim and Nell for all these years. The family is especially appreciative for all the care given to Jim by the kind staff of Oak Manor nursing and rehabilitation center. Jim's great-grandson, Sullivan Butler, has recently battled childhood cancer. In lieu of flowers, the family would welcome donations to the St. Baldrick's Foundation where funds will be used for research and to find a cure for childhood cancer. Please go to stbaldricks.org for more information on sending funds. A graveside service is scheduled for 10 a.m., Thursday July 6, 2017 at Oak Hill Cemetery in Booneville, under the direction of Roberts Funeral Home. Honorary Pallbearers will be Bill Burk, Joe Burk, Jim Burk, Dan Martin, Roby Martin, Jesse Butler, and Jim Burk. Visitation will be from 5 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, evening at Roberts Funeral Home. www.robertsfh.com