Barney Belton Burks

1930-2017

Barney B. Burks, Jr., 87, died peacefully at home on Dec. 20, 2017 in Pensacola, Florida. He was preceded in death by brothers Elwood (Woody) Burks and Douglas Burks; and sister, Mary Elizabeth Gray. He is survived by his wife Peggy Sue Burks of Pensacola, FL, daughters Monique Rogers (Buddy) of Daytona Beach, FL, Reneé Lord (Simon) of Gulf Breeze, FL and sons Barney B. Burks, III (Barbara) of Gulf Breeze, FL, Greg Vannoy (Alex) of Pensacola, FL and Todd Vannoy (Ashley) of Destin, FL. He has twelve grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. Also survived by brothers Bob Burks, Johnny Burks, and sister Geraldine Cottman.

He was born August 6, 1930, in Birmingham, AL to Reverend Barney B. Burks and Mamie Lou Burks. He graduated high school in Gadsden, AL and attended college at Jacksonville State in Jacksonville, AL before enlisting in the Air Force In 1952. While in the Air Force, he became a distinguished pilot earning the Korean Service Medal with two Bronze Stars, United Nations Service Medal, Distinguished Flying Cross with one Oak Leaf Cluster, Air Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, and National Defense Service Medal.

He ended his career successfully completing 100 missions before returning to Sumpter, SC where he was honorably discharged. He immediately moved to Pensacola to open what became Big Ten Tires with his brothers, Woody and Doug in 1956. His business sold in 1981 and he pursued a career in banking and financial brokerage. He was the mayor of Pensacola for 2 consecutive terms in the 70’s and received numerous other awards and recognitions from the community. Barney was on many boards as well as President of the Florida Baptist Convention and Baptist Hospital Board of Directors, and a longtime deacon at First Baptist Church of Pensacola. Barney’s benevolent and compassionate spirit drove his daily mission to help others that had trouble helping themselves.

The memorial service is scheduled for 2 pm Saturday December 23, 2017 at First United Methodist Church, 6 E. Wright St. with visitation beginning at 1 pm. Reverend Ken Autrey will preside over the ceremony. A private burial will precede the church service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Waterfront Rescue Mission, American Heart Association, or First United Methodist Church.

The legacy that Barney left his family was one of great faith, love for his fellow man, and a commitment to his community. We are so proud to call him husband, dad, and friend.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Bayview Fisher-Pou Funeral Home.