Cecil Wye Ellis Burks

Cecil Wye Ellis Burks, 81, died Tuesday, June 17, 2014 with family at his bedside in Little Rock, Arkansas. Born August 16, 1933, lifelong reside of Little Rock, he attended Little Rock Junior College but graduated from the University of Arkansas Fayetteville in 1956 with a Bachelor's Degree in History. He was drafted into the Army after college serving two years in the Artillery Battalion, then transferred to the Air National Guard retiring as a Captain in 1960. Known for his never ending interests and hobbies that included vegetable gardening, theater, bee keeping and photography, he was an avid learner. Cecil served as a Justice of the Peace, was active in the community having served four terms as President of the Lions Club, taught Bible Study Class and was an Elder for many years at Christ Lutheran Church. Cecil is survived by his wife of 57 years, Sharon Blackburn Burks, brother Roy Burks (Karen); daughters, Tammany Burks Gillham (Scott), Kathleen Burks Thomas (George) and Bonnie Burks Files (Kevin); grandchildren, Lauren Merrill (Jeremy), Heather Gillham, Maris Thomas, Jessica Pear (J.R.) and Harrison Files; great grandchildren, Gage and Adylen Merrill and numerous nieces and nephews who affectionately called him, "Uncle Bing-Bong." A visitation will be Thursday, June 19, 2014 from 4 p.m. till 6 p.m. then a Memorial Service on Friday, June 20, 2014 both held at Christ Lutheran Church, 315 Hughes, Little Rock. A reception will be held at 6315 Cantrell Road following the service. Donations can be made to Wounded Warrior and or Christ Lutheran Church. www.ruebelfuneralhome.com.