William Earl Burgess

NASHVILLE – William Earl “Bill” Burgess, age 85, passed away on Wednesday, June 7, 2023. Born in Durham County, NC on April 10, 1938, he was the son of the late Johnny Oscar Burgess and Rachel Frances Manning Sledge. He was also preceded in death by his stepfather, Rudolph S. Sledge and his sister-in-law, Martha Sledge.

Bill was a veteran of the United States Air Force and a member of Parkwood Baptist Church. He retired from Polylok, Inc. in Tarboro as a Shop Manager after over 10 years of service. Blessed with a charismatic personality, Bill never met a stranger and could start a conversation with anyone, always ending it with a good joke. A dedicated and loving husband, brother, uncle, and dear friend to many, he will be dearly missed and never forgotten.

Bill is survived by his wife of 58 years, Barbara Medlin Burgess of Nashville; his brother Stalie Sledge of Elizabethtown, KY; his niece, Tanya Radeke and husband Michael; and his great nephews, Austin Talbert and Michael Thomas Radeke.

A Funeral Service to celebrate Bill’s life will be held on Monday, June 12, 2023, at 2:00 PM at Parkwood Baptist Church, 1731 Hunter Hill Rd, Rocky Mount, NC 27804, with Pastor John Scott officiating. Burial will follow the service at Rocky Mount Memorial Park. Visitation with the family will be from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM prior to the service at Parkwood Baptist Church.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.