Bettye Louise (Clark) Burkes

She attended schools in the Austin, Travis County community.

Bettye worked for Congressman J.J. “Jake” Pickle for 10 years. She then worked for the Texas Education Agency for 14 years, and after she went to work for the United States Postal Service, where she retired after 25 years.

During her tenure of working, Bettye purchased her home and many fine and nice cars. Bettye decorated her home and kept the yard manicured. She also took care of her hair with many different styles – she never went to a beauty salon! Her mother was a beautician, now called cosmetologist, and saw that all three girls’ hair was taken care of.

Bettye helped raise her nephew, Brother Korii Antwon Bellinger.

In 1962, Bettye married the love of her life, Brother Major Lee Burkes Sr. To this union, three children were added: Sheila LaChelle Burkes, Michael Earl Burkes Sr., and Major Lee Burkes Jr.

Bettye joined the East 19th Street Missionary Baptist Church in 1956 and was a member until she passed. Her duties were ushering, teaching and playing the piano for Sunday school, and Baptist Training Union for 22 years. She also sang in the choir for close to 50 years, and helped in the nursery.

Bettye was a member of the Order of Eastern Stars, The Lily of the Valley, Chapter #47, for 40+ years.

After her retirement, Bettye taught piano lessons for free, from her home, for kids from age 3 to 17.

Bettye is survived by three sisters, Sister Hettie Lee Wilson (Dallas, TX), Sister Etta Bellinger Johnson (Dallas, TX), Sister Lori Ann Bellinger (Austin, TX); and three brothers, Brother Tommy Lee Jones Clark (Austin, TX), Brother William Lloyd Bellinger (Austin, TX), and Reverend Robert Louis Bellinger (Philadelpha, PA); and 13 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Bettye’s faith in God brought her through many trials and tribulations. Her prayers were answered in Jesus name. She loved the Lord with all her heart.

# Livestream - Life Celebration Bettye Louise (Clark) Burkes

YouTube Link:

https://youtu.be/Aihs_cXI_vA

#Telephone conference call number:

605-313-4154, access code 779352#