Dr. Doyle Eugene Burgess Jr.

Born on October 24, 1939, Gene lived a life marked by both academic excellence and unwavering spiritual devotion. He earned his Doctor of Pharmacy Degree from University of Tennessee and began his professional career serving faithfully in his family’s pharmacy. Yet, in obedience to the Lord, he stepped away from his profession to pursue full-time ministry, setting the course for what would become a remarkable 52-year legacy of service to the Kingdom of God.

On June 12, 1965, Gene married the love of his life, Heather Anne Burgess. Together, they built a full life centered on faith, family, and ministry. They welcomed their daughter, Deborah “Deb,” in 1969, and their son, Doyle Burgess III, in 1973. In 1971, Gene and Heather answered the call to the mission field, embarking on a journey that would take them across Asia, Africa, and India. Over the course of 14 years as missionaries and 6 years in evangelism, they faithfully shared the Gospel, witnessing countless lives transformed.

Upon returning to the United States, Dr. Burgess continued his ministry as a pastor, shepherding congregations with wisdom, compassion, and conviction for 32 years. His pastoral leadership culminated at Bartlett First Assembly, now known as Legacy Church Bartlett, where he faithfully served until his retirement in 2014. He continued as Pastor Emeritus, remaining a spiritual father and guiding presence within the church community until his passing.

Throughout his decades of ministry, Pastor Burgess witnessed thousands come to know Jesus Christ. In his personal writings, he recounted profound moments of faith, including his own healings of malaria (twice!), a malignant brain tumor, a rare blood disease, electrocution, a serious case of arthritis, and a broken back three times! During his ministry he delivered testimonies of lives restored from shame and brokenness turning hearts back to God. There was no church or ministry appointment that was too small; prior to entering ministry full time, he preached at a local radio program for a Memphis radio station during his college years, sharing the gospel whenever possible.

Yet, among all his accomplishments, his most cherished memories were the moments spent alongside his wife and children, particularly during their years of traveling and ministering together.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Doyle and Mildred Burgess, and his brother, Ron Burgess.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 61 years, Heather Anne Burgess; his daughter, Deborah Chavez, son-in-law Jeremy Chavez; his son, Doyle Burgess III; grandchildren, Lee Trulove and Chase Trulove; and his brother Philip Burgess.

Rev. Burgess leaves behind a legacy of faith and service that will continue to impact generations. His life stands as a testament to obedience, humility, and the enduring power of the Gospel.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Legacy Church Bartlett.

Though he has finished his race and entered eternal glory, the echo of his steady faith and gentle spirit remains. And in the simple, familiar words he so often spoke, we are reminded that this is not goodbye, but only, “bye for now.”

Visitation will be held at Legacy Church Bartlett Assemblies of God, 7054 St Elmo Rd, Bartlett, TN 38135, US, on April 27, 2026, at 12pm followed by the Funeral Service at the same location at 1pm.

A Committal Service will take place at Memorial Park Funeral Home & Cemetery, 5668 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN 38120.

Pallbearers will be Doyle Burgess, III, Jeremy Chavez, Philip Burgess, Richard Denniston, Jim Nutter, Gordon Dolittle, and Billy Maddox.