Id like to say a few words about my friend and neighbor, who I knew as Mike.

Mike was the kind of person you feel lucky to have in your life. He was a great friend, a great neighbor, and above all, a devoted husband and father. He loved his boys deeply, he loved his wife, and he loved his dogs—and if you knew Mike, you knew those things were at the center of his world.

We shared a lot of common interests. Whether it was politics, golf, or our ongoing competition over who had the best organic yard, there was always something to talk about. And we talked about everything—religion, life, and all the things in between.

But one of the things I appreciated most about Mike was how simple he kept things. He didn’t need much. Honestly, if it were up to him, he’d probably still be driving a station wagon or an old Chevy pickup. And there’s something admirable about that.

Because Mike understood something a lot of us forget—what really matters. He had a beautiful wife, a wonderful family, his dogs, and a life full of meaning. That was enough for him. That was everything.

Mike leaves behind a legacy of love, of simplicity, and of being present for the people who mattered most.

He’ll be dearly missed. And I can tell you this—he’s someone I think about often, especially when I’m out working in my yard. In those quiet moments, I can still hear the conversations, the laughter, and that friendly competition we shared.

I’m grateful for Mike. Grateful for his friendship, for what he taught me, and for the example he set.

We’ll miss you,     Driver!

I went by to visit with Aunt Jeanette, as I walked pass your garden, I noticed all the butterflies still hanging on the lattice and remember when we sat at the table and talked for about 45 minutes regarding those butterflies. I will deeply miss you! I know your up there playing the guitar with my dad and smiling. I love you Uncle Michael.

I will miss Michael. Being his neighbor for over 25 years we had many conversations about family, work, golf, music, the neighborhood and of course, some politics. He was always so proud of his sons, and I admired how he would talk about their strengths and achievements. It was obvious that they were his greatest achievement! I’ve had a chance to get to know all three of them over the years but especially working with Richard at Waltrip High School. He was super friendly and caring to me and I’d always tell my wife he reminded me of one of my uncles, from Kentucky. He played a great guitar and always wanted me to join him with the harmonica. We made some great noise together. We also had a chance to play a few rounds of golf. I was always amazed at how, at an older age and in his flip flops, he could smack that ball like nobody’s business. To my friend and neighbor, Michael, Rest in Peace.

I met “Chuck” when I was just 17, and from the very beginning, he welcomed me with kindness and warmth. I’m especially grateful that he was my son‘s Grandpa. The love he showed, and the memories they shared will always mean so much to me. There are so many moments I’ll hold onto. I’ll always think of him eating his ice cream in a cup on the couch. It would gross me out how he shared his ice cream with the dog, from the same spoon! He sure loved that little Trusty.
He bought Thomas his first truck and I’ll never forget taking it for a spin. Afterward, he looked at me and said “Now that’s how you drive!” The truth is, I’m actually a pretty terrible driver, but I drive fast and with purpose, and for some reason, he appreciated that. That moment still makes me smile.
Every time I see a man wearing a pair of tube socks and slides I’ll think of him. My son has made that his choice of footwear for all occasions. I guess he takes after his Grandpa.
He was always there in the ways that mattered, and that’s something I will never forget. I feel lucky to have known him and to have shared in those years. He will be deeply missed and warmly remembered.

I am so sorry that we have lost another of our Oaks Dads Club friends.  Mr. Burress helped me with Donald numerous times. Donald and  I respected and and admired him immensely. Donald passed 08/14/2025.  Maybe they can meet up again and have discussions once
again about their love of sports.

Jeanette & family, I am so sorry for your loss and I am praying for your comfort. Royal informed me of Mikes passing today, 3/20/26. I did not attend Lamar high school but knew Mike through Royal. I remember Mike as an easy going good guy. My wife, Sonya and I came out to y'alls house a few times during the heyday of the Tea Party. In fact  in my phone contacts I have Mike listed as 'Charter Member Constitutional Texas Tea Party'. We live in Tyler, Texas and I am unsure whether at this time if I will be able to come to Mike's visitation and funeral service, but know that we are thinking of him and his family during this time of your loss. Know that he is looking down on all of us and smiling from Heaven.
Prayers and blessings!

Prayers are with the family. Sorry for your loss.

Michael B, as I affectionately called him. What a great friend  and teammate!! Great athlete, both as a quarterback & pitcher. I have a lot of great memories not only on the football field and baseball field but also as friends. I will miss him greatly but will always have the memories from a life long friendship. Love you Michael B!!!! My thoughts and prayers are with the Burriss Family.

OBITUARY

Charles Michael Burriss

March 4, 1950 – March 14, 2026

Earthman Resthaven Funeral Home & Cemetery

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