Ishmuel Lee Burgess

He was the son of S.S. Burgess, Sr. and Evah Burgess. Ishmuel was preceded in death by his two brothers, S.S. Burgess, Jr. and Phelix A. Burgess, and his sister, Mrs. L.W. Penfield.

A proud graduate of the Okmulgee High School Class of 1945, Ishmuel maintained close ties with his classmates and regularly attended their reunions. Shortly after graduation, he joined the Army Air Corps, serving his country with honor.

Ishmuel was a lifetime member of the American Legion and contributed to his community and profession through his involvement with the Carpenters Local Union for 55 years and the International Union of Operating Engineers for 35 years.

He worked for 33 years at the Firestone-Dayton tire plant in Oklahoma City, where he eventually retired.

A devoted Freemason, Ishmuel was a member of Masonic Lodge #199 in Okmulgee for over 50 years and held the 32nd Degree in the Scottish Rite in McAlester.

He was proud of his Native heritage and was a roll member of both the Creek Nation in Okmulgee and the Cherokee Nation in Tahlequah, Oklahoma.

Ishmuel Lee Burgess lived a full and meaningful life marked by service, hard work, and a strong sense of community. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be from 4pm-8pm Wednesday, August 13, 2025 at Bill Merritt Funeral Service.

Services will be 10am Thursday, August 14, 2025 at Bill Merritt Funeral Service with interment to follow at Okmulgee Cemetery.