Howard Clifford Burks

Howard Clifford Burks transitioned peacefully to his heavenly home Wednesday, March 9, 2022. He was born to the late Edward and Susie Burks in Columbus, Ohio on February 1, 1947. He was raised in the neighborhoods of Poindexter Village and Eastgate.

He was a proud graduate of East High School, Class of 1965. He obtained his first post-secondary degree from Columbus Drafting College in 1967 and his second degree (B.S. in Education) from Central State University in 1971.

Howard worked for Columbus City Schools as an educator and coach for 30 years teaching Industrial Arts. He enjoyed teaching students knowledge and skills needed to work with tools and machinery. He also inspired young people through coaching football, wrestling, girls' basketball, softball, and volleyball. He was recognized for many years of coaching and nominated as "Teacher of the Year."

Howard was a long-time member of First AME Zion Church (formerly Caldwell Temple), where he was active in the life of the church as a trustee, a Sunday school teacher, a member of the Friends of Education Committee, a member of the Credit Union Board, and sang with the Andrew L. Foster, Jr. Memorial Mass Choir. He also participated in the Meals on Wheels Program to aid the Senior Ministry and was a tutor for Main Street Elementary School. Additionally, he served as Adult Director of First AME Zion Church. In 2014, he joined the Faith Clinic Community Church where he continued to serve faithfully on the Board of Directors and as the Events Coordinator.

Howard was known for his sense of humor and making jokes to provoke laughter or cause amusement. He enjoyed traveling in his RV with family and friends, tailgating at CSU Homecoming, watching sports events, and attending live music events and festivals. During the Christmas holiday, he enjoyed sharing his Lionel Model train layouts that he designed with pride.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Susie Burks; brother, Sherman E. Burks Sr; sisters, Shirley A. Brown and Bettirose Jennings; and niece, Jocolyn R. Weeks.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving and devoted wife of 48 years, Catherine Odom Burks; daughters, Angela (Andre) Blakely and Kiesha Burks; grandchildren, Alysee and Andrea; great-grandchildren; brother-in-law Eugene Jennings; sister-in-law Ora Ann Burks; nieces Toyia Burks and Katrina Jennings; nephews, Sherman Burks Jr. and James Weeks; and a host of other nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He will be missed by all.

Family will receive friends on Friday, March 18, 2022 from 10:30am until the start of the service at 11:30am at SCHOEDINGER NORTHEAST FUNERAL HOME, 1051 E Johnstown Rd, Gahanna.