Janet Kay Burke

Janet Kay Burke, born in 1946 in Clinton, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones. A woman of immense faith, Janet dedicated her life to Jesus Christ and found joy in singing, dancing, and celebrating life with her family and beloved dogs. She was a fiery redhead whose feisty spirit and sharp wit made her truly unforgettable.

Janet was a proud daddy’s girl and often shared that her father, Paul Guthrie, taught her, “You can handle anything if you try hard enough.” She lived by those words, and throughout her life, they proved true. Her determination and resilience were a cornerstone of her character and inspired everyone around her.

Born in Clinton, Oklahoma, Janet moved to Texas as a young girl and grew up in Borger and Pampa. She married and raised her family in Borger before moving to Phillips, Texas. Eventually, she settled in Amarillo, where she continued her career in security, taking great pride in her status as a federal agent. Known affectionately as “The General,” Janet was fiercely protective of her loved ones, with a determination and confidence that those close to her admired.

Janet and her husband, Buddy Burke, shared a deep and unwavering love for one another. Their bond was built on mutual support, respect, and devotion, providing a foundation of strength for their family. Together, they created a life centered on faith, family, and love.

In retirement, Janet enjoyed cherishing her family, spoiling her dogs, and serving the Lord. She never met a stranger, and her warmth and friendliness made everyone she encountered feel valued. She was the heart of her family, ensuring her loved ones always felt supported and cared for.

Janet is preceded in death by her parents, Lillian and Paul Guthrie; her brothers, Terry Guthrie (and wife Glenda) and Edward Guthrie (and wife Gayle); and her grandson, Matthew Lambert. She is survived by her loving husband, Buddy Burke; her brother, Dick Guthrie (and wife Linda); her sisters, Sue Winborn (and husband Coyle) and Ruth Ann Tripplehorn.

Her legacy lives on through her children: Robert Chase and wife Cathy, Heidi Taylor and husband Stuart, Shelly Chase, and Heather Ford; her grandchildren: Chase Lambert, LuRae Rowell (and husband Jeremy), Brooke Meadows, Kelsie Chase, Chase Meadows, Hope Stokes (and husband Jake Hoeffner), Neison Sutterfield, Cole Ford, Reese Ford, and Lauren Taylor; and her great- grandchildren: Eden Chase, Nolan Rowell, Lydia Rowell, Leah Hawkins, Dacey Roberts, and Evelyn Roberts. Janet also shared a deep bond with her nieces, nephews, and extended family, loving them all with her whole heart.

Janet lived a life filled with faith, love, and unwavering dedication to those she cared about. Her strength, wisdom, and warmth will be deeply missed and forever cherished by her family and countless friends.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, from 5-7 pm at Griggs Schooler Gordon Funeral Directors 5400 Bell St. A celebration of Janet’s life will be held on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at 2 pm at Griggs Schooler Gordon Funeral Directors Pioneer Chapel 5400 Bell St with Pastor Greg Corona officiating.