Cordell Burris, Sr. Obituary (1931 - 2018)

Cordell Burris, Sr., 86, of Linkwood, quietly entered eternal rest on Saturday March 17, 2018 in his home in Linkwood. He lived a blessed and full life. He was a faithful, hard-working, popular and well-loved person who helped everyone he could. His infectious smile and caring heart touched many lives. In the hearts of those who knew and loved him, Cordell will be truly missed. Cordell was born to the late Arthur Chambers and Maggie Burris on December 18, 1931 in York County, South Carolina. Attending school until the 6th grade, Cordell went to work in the cotton field to help support his family. He served his country by enrolling in the Army. He fought for his country in the Korean War. For 40 years, he was devotedly employed by C&P Telephone Company (later called Bell Atlantic) doing building maintenance. Cordell accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior under Evangelist A.A. Allen. He was a committed, devoted and faithful member of Jubilee Christian Fellowship for 39 years. Cordell was a tither, giver, soul winner and loved giving to the poor. No matter what role he was asked to fulfill whether it was as an usher, custodian or security personnel, Cordell would come early and stay late to ensure the job was completed. Cordell enjoyed roller skating even teaching countless number of people how to roller skate. A lover of race horses, Cordell enjoyed sharing stories of the times he spent on the race tracks caring for and training race horses. A wrestling enthusiast, he enjoyed telling stories about wrestlers as well as watching wrestling whether it was at a live show or on television. He also enjoyed watching sporting events such as horse races, baseball and football games. He was a devoted fan of the Baltimore Orioles and Baltimore Ravens. In addition to his parents, Cordell was preceded in death by his sisters: Reeva White, Barbara Allen; his brother Glenn M. White; a grandchild Wandelle McShay Fletcher; and his longtime companion Joan L. Simmons. Cordell is survived by his children: Donna M. Burris, Betty A. Pearson, Cordell Burris, Jr. and Gerard E. Simmons (Chico); one sister Evelyn McCorkle; two brothers: John Larson and Scotto White; two granddaughters: Tiffany S. Fletcher and Miyhana F. Seeney; nine great grandchildren: Floyd and Michelle Jones, Antwine Bolton, Charamalique, Tre’Donjuanea and Dakeem Fletcher, Da’Quan and D’wayne Brown and Ismael Rivera; 6 great great great- grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and countless number of friends.