Wilma Louise Burke

SPRINGFIELD - Wilma Louise Batts Burke, 90, formerly of Sikeston, completed her mortal journey after a long life of love and laughter at 10 a.m. May 4, 2007, in Springfield.

She was born on Aug. 30, 1916, to John Amon and Barbara Ladd Batts. Wilma lived most of her life in Scott County until moving to Springfield in September 2000.

On Feb. 24, 1936, she was united in marriage to William R. Burke, and their friendship and marriage lasted for 65 years until his death in 2001. To this union was born three children.

Wilma was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-

grandmother. Her family was the delight and joy of her life. She will always be remembered for her ready smile and cheerful sense of humor.

She was an active member of the First United Methodist Church in Sikeston, along with her husband Bill for 50 years. She especially enjoyed the friendship and support of the Philanthea Sunday School Class and her Circle of the United Methodist Women's Society. Being a "people" person, her friends were all very dear to her heart.

Wilma is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Bill; three sister, Donna, Cleo and Mildred; and infant brother, J.A., and infant sister, Audrey; and two great-grandchildren.

Survivors include: two sons and daughters-in-law, Dale and Sharon Burke of Monett and Terry and Vickie Burke of Glenwood Springs, Colo.; one daughter and son-in-law, Joy and Rick Leslie of Joplin; eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Friends may call from 5:30-7 p.m. Monday at the Ponder Funeral Home in Sikeston. Services are scheduled for 10 a.m. Tuesday at the First United Methodist Church with Geoff Posegate, pastor, and Charles Bock of Springfield Kingsbury Methodist Church of Springfield officiating.

Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery in Sikeston.

- - -

Memorial contributions

may be sent to:

First United Methodist Church

1370 North Main Sikeston, MO 63801

Paid obituary