Mr. Burks was a retired decorated World War II Marine Veteran and a member of the Church of Christ. Other than his parents, he was also preceded in death by three brothers, Carl, Charlie and Jay Burks and three sisters, Myrtle Knowles, Jane Butler and Coty Ashcraft.
When our country entered World War II, "Click" enlisted into the United States Marine Corps in 1942 and reported for duty at Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego, CA. During the war he participated in numerous key battles of WWII. He saw action at Guadalcanal, Cape Gloucester, Peleliu, and Okinawa. He received both of his Purple Hearts at Peleliu and his Bronze Star at Okinawa. After the war he returned to Monticello, but his country called and he answered. He re-enlisted in 1950 to serve in the Korean War. He also served two tours of duty in Vietnam. During his 33 year career in the Corps, "Click" served to protect his country all over the world. He faced many hardships and dangers so that we would not have to. He attained the highest enlisted rank of Sergeant Major and was nominated for Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps in 1977. After retirement, SgtMaj Burks was JROTC instructor at Parkview High School in Little Rock where he had a positive influence on many young people's lives. He served as past post commander and chaplain of the VFW Post 9095 in Little Rock.
Survivors include two sons, Clifford M. Burks, Jr. of Smithwick, TX an Carl Burks and wife, Debbie of Cedarcreek, MO; two daughters, Julie Foster and Paulette Burks both of Monticello; two sisters, Ruby Jeter of Nashville, TN and Guylene Simmons of Lewes, DL; six grandchildren, Juddy Burks and wife, Sharon, Archer Neilson, Gabe Burks and wife, Chassity, Elizabeth Burchfield, Cody Foster and wife, Michele, and Jay Foster and wife, Jamie; and seven great-grandchildren, Teresa, Kamrynn, Katelyn, Nicholas, Brooklyn, Luke and Jaycie.
He was an avid hunter and fisherman, activities he enjoyed all of his 90 years. They say that old soldiers never die, they only fade away, but whether you knew him as Daddy, Pop, PawPaw, Click, SgtMaj, S.O.B. or the Warhorse, he will never fade from our hearts and memories.
Funeral services will be 3:00 p.m. Saturday, September 21, 2013 at Stephenson-Dearman Chapel by Gunnery Sgt. Marcus Sugg. Burial with full military honors will be in Union Ridge Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Friday night at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to VFW 9095, 1121 Gamble Rd, Little Rock, AR 72211. Online guestbook www.stephensondearman.com.
Condolences(42)
John Washington
Newport News, VA Monday, May 5, 2014 Farewell Marine and thank you for the mentoring that you not only provided to me, but to all of the Marines who served with you at the Marine Barracks in Rota, Spain. Your teaching and guidance served me well throughout my career. We served together from 1969 - 19711stSgt John Washington/USMC Retired/1967 - 1987
Dorothy McWhorter
Ft. Worth, TX Monday, September 30, 2013 This country has lost one of our best; a member of the United States retired military.Guy Burks Simmons
Fishing Creek, MD Tuesday, September 24, 2013 I am so proud and thankful that we was part of my life and lineage. Forever in my heart."Burks"
Carla Abraham-Ross
Maumelle, AR Monday, September 23, 2013 Sgt. Major Burks was very influential in my life during my years at Parkview HS (1983-1986). He was fair, honest, serious, caring, funny and fun. I will never forget all of the trips that we took across the country with our precision drill team. I had the honor of being Drill Team Commander, and also a member of Color Guard - all at the urging of Sgt. Major Burks. A noble, upstanding man who's presence demanded respect, and his love for his country showed in everything he did. May you rest in peace.DARREN MCKINNEY
ESCONDIDO, CA Monday, September 23, 2013 Semper Fi Marine, we will never forget.D. McKinney MSGT USMC Ret.
Charles Todd Jr
Little Rock, AR Sunday, September 22, 2013 Sgt. Major Burks was a great mentor and instructor at Parkview High School and one of the main reasons I joined the Marine Corps after high school. I am glad I got a chance to visit him at his home and talk about old times. Sgt. Major Burks, you will always be in my heart. What a great man that touched so many lives.Jane Jo Summerford
Minot, ND Saturday, September 21, 2013 What an awesome man! So sorry for your loss, but I am SO glad for the memories all of you will hold close to your hearts forever.Charlotte Wherry/Shirley Brooks
Little Rock, AR Saturday, September 21, 2013 You will be dearly miss Burks by me and Shirley BrooksAlan Kays
Bryant, AR Saturday, September 21, 2013 Semper Fi.MGySgt Stephen A. Gomillion USMC-Ret
Little Rock, AR Friday, September 20, 2013 I was a Marine Recruiter in Little Rock for Parkview High School 1984 to 1988.SgtMaj told me in 1984 that Navy recruited majority graduating seniors each year. I told SgtMajor, not on my watch. From 1984 - 1988, Navy Recruiters always asked, what have you and SgtMaj done to us. New DevilDog on board Sir !
My daughter graduated XO JROTC 1993. I will miss his MC stories. Semper-Fi SgtMaj !!!
Joathan Wayne
Little Rock, AR Friday, September 20, 2013 My thoughts and prayers are with the family of SgtMa Burks during this difficult time. He was my ROTC instructor at Parkview and is the "VERY" reason that I became a Marine which shaped me into the man that I am today. He saw the potential in me when I couldn't and for that I am eternally grateful. Thank you for your service, your guidance and the memories.Semper Fi Forever
Oorah
Cpl Joathan Wayne, Jr.
Carolyn & Maury Joe
Pine Bluff, AR Friday, September 20, 2013 Our deepest sympathy to the family.Steve and Edna Brooks
North Little Rock, AR Friday, September 20, 2013 Sgt Maj Burks is in heaven swapping war stories with his fellow Marines.George Burks
Bryant, AR Friday, September 20, 2013 Your father was a member of the greatest generation and an inspiration to all who have worn our country 's uniform in wars both past and present. I was able to have had the chance to spend a little time with him a few years back and came away inspired and humbled by the experience he must have had during his career serving our country. His passing is a great loss to you his family and all Americans who live in the land of the free . May he be at peace .judith williams
sun city, AZ Friday, September 20, 2013 My condolences to the family. You are all in my thoughts, especially Cliff & Carl & Julie. Take care, enjoy this time together and please stay in touch. 480-430-1277.Bobby & margaret
Shreveport, LA Friday, September 20, 2013 Our Prayers are for all who will be there. Clifford BurksWas a Really devoted to his military career, but would
contact asking about family and places.
When running track at the college field he was always there with Dad and I. Answered many questions about
our Burks kin ELLIS C Gilliam's mother was Ida Sue Burks married Albert Newton Gilliam..
Lived across from his Uncle Guy Burks a long time.
My Our Lord & Savior Bless All the families .
and Clifford M. Burks a Great Officer in military Service
Would love to be therem but medical reason prevents the Trip.
Bob McDaniel
Benton, AR Friday, September 20, 2013 R.I.P. Sgt Major. You deserve it. Sgt. Major was one of my R.O.T.C. instructors when I was a Parkview High School student and had a major influence on my life and decision to join the U.S. Marines. He will be missed but not forgotten.Bill Clinton
N Little Rock, AR Friday, September 20, 2013 I was a student of Sergeant Major at Parkview HS. Throughout the years I have always thought of Sarge. He had the unique ability to relate and gain the respect of everyone that was around him. I can remember being a skinny high school kid and saluting him "don't salute me son - I earn my pay!" He made a difference in so many lives. I am glad he was a part of mine.James Kenneth Cardenas
Little Rock, AR Friday, September 20, 2013 Sgt Maj BurksThe fewest of the few
Grunts forever, Semper Fi.
Don Grafton
Little Rock, AR Friday, September 20, 2013 My dad, Harold Grafton and Sgt Maj Burks were close friends. My deepest sympathies go out to his family...... My dad and Sgt Maj camped out a lot down at Maumelle Park. They had a lot of fish frys down there........Thank you, Sgt Major for your service and your sacrifice..... OOO- RAH......
Ron&Katie Pendleton
Alexander, AR Friday, September 20, 2013 Met & got to know Sgt.Major at the NLR VA Hospital while we (Ron) were patients I (Katie) visited with Sgt.Major as well when I would be there with Ron. Learned in that short time to love that man and are saddened to learn of his death. Praying for the family as we know he will be greatly missed.Donna & Richard Jones
Roland, AR Friday, September 20, 2013 We are proud to have known Sgt. Major. He will be sorely mised.Cindy Taylor
Little Rock, AR Friday, September 20, 2013 I knew Sgt, Major for a lot of yrs through my late husband Chuck Taylor and Post 9095. Chuck and I had the utmost respect and love for him. He will be dearly missed.Cindy Taylor
James Simpson
Jacksonville, NC Friday, September 20, 2013 I was privileged to know the SgtMaj for several years while I was growing up. The impact of his war stories and the way he carried himself directly influenced my career decision. I served 25 years as an enlisted Marine retiring as a MSgt in 2012. I'll never forget him calling me a "quitter" when I considered retiring at 20 years. He instilled a love of the Corps in me that has lasted throughout my life.My condolences go out to all of his friends and family. I pray that God comforts you in this difficult time. I wish I could be there to celebrate his long life with you this weekend.
Lisa Conley-Spence
Little Rock, AR Friday, September 20, 2013 I was a student of Sgt. Majors Burks over 30 years ago at Parkview. I can truly say from the bottom of my heart he was one of the most well liked teachers at the school. And oh what a lasting impression he left. My condolences go out to the family of this wonderful man, he will be missed.Bill Harris
Little Rock, AR Friday, September 20, 2013 I've known the SgtMaj just a few years as a member of the local Marine Corps League Detachment. He was instantly recognized as the real Marine. Everything you may hear about him is probably true. We all loved him.Semper Fi
Tony Higgins
Monticello, AR Friday, September 20, 2013 Semper Fi!!!Charles Booth
Little Rock, AR Friday, September 20, 2013 SgtMaj was one of my favorite teachers at Parkview, I learned so much under his leadership in ROTC for 3yrs. My prayers goes out to the family, gone but not forgotten. Take your rest SgtMaj Burk RIL and sleep on, see you on the other side.patrick
little rock, AR Friday, September 20, 2013 HE WAS MY FAVORITE TEACHER. HE TAUGHT ME ALOT ABOUT LIFE.IM GONNA TRULY MISS HIM.PARKVIEW C/O 86.Shelly Showmar
, AR Friday, September 20, 2013 To the family of Sergeant Major Burks: My name is Shelly Showmar, a former student at Parkview High School. I wasn't in ROTC and didn't know him except by face. I always said hello to him when passing him in the hallway and he always spoke in return.As I read Sergeant Major Burks' obituary, I realize, now, what a hero we had in our very hallways and what a life he did, indeed, live. In fact, I am involved in our class' 30th year reunion this year and forwarded his obituary to our class. You would be amazed at the number of classmates who have replied, saying how much they thought of him, how they influenced their lives, and how much they respected him. There are classmates, like me, who were not in ROTC, but knew of him as a leader in our school. They, too, appreciate his service and know what an honor it was to have him in our hallways and in our classrooms.
Just wanted to pass along that information and let you know, again, how much I appreciate his service to our country and your family (67 years of marriage is an incredible example --- especially in this day and age). You will certainly be in my prayers!
Shelly (Stubbs) Showmar
Parkview's Class of '83
BOB BOYD
AVONDALE ESTATES, GA Friday, September 20, 2013 RUBY, AND ALL OF YOU, I AM VERY SORRY TO HEARTHIS NEWS. CLIFFORD WAS MY BROTHERS, JACKS AGE. I ALWAYS HAD A PROUD FEELING AND HIGH RESPECT FOR CLIFFORD. AND HIS ENTIRE FAMILY. I AM A BETTER PERSON HAVING KNOWN THE FAMILY AS I GREW UP ON THE A, & M. COLLEGE
CAMPUS. MY MOTHER AND FATHER, MR. &* MRS. A. H. BOYD, LOVED ALL OF YOU TOO.
I HAVE A GOOD TAPE RECORDING OF MRS. GUY
TELLING OF HER LIFE AND FAMILY.
MR. GUY, MR. MAJORS, AND HOMER JACKS WAS MY BOSS WHEN, AT AGE 11, I WORKED FOR THE AGGIE CAMPUS. THEY TAUGHT ME HOW TO WORK HARD FOR 15 CENTS/ HR FOR 8 HR. AND NOT COMPLAIN ABOUT IT. I HAVE NEVER FORGOT IT.
AND RUBY, YOU WERE A GOD SENT BLESSING FOR
MY MOTHER AND FATHER I LOVE YOU ALL AS YOUR FAMILY ARE TRUE AMERICANS AND WONDERFUL PEOPLE.
BOB BOYD
.
Richard Key
Little Rock, AR Friday, September 20, 2013 Anyone who puts his life on the line for this country is a true American hero. Clifford M. Burks, Sr. is at the head of this line. My prayers go out to his family at this time. God bless.Bobby Ellis&Margaret Gilliam
Shreveport, LA Thursday, September 19, 2013 Cousin Clifford M. Burks, Bobby Will always miss Not long agoI had a long letter from him He was at the collage when I was
running track and playing Football at Monticello High School.
His letter I re read a few days ago brought back memories
He told me about where he had a trailer on Rough and ready so
he had a place to stay when there. For those who do not know
My Grandmother was Ida Sue Burks Who married Albert N. Gilliam. Age 90 brought back Memories, Dad died at 88.I would
Love to be there at the funeral, but am still recovering from Surgery after breaking both bones an foot all most off. My wife, Margaret and family Here in Shreveport, Louisiana will be praying for all who get there and Ruby Burks Jeter and Families.
Clliford would be proud of a military funeral and deserves it.
Our Prayers are for you all and a safe return home.
So Sad. At age 79 we have to follow our Dr's advice.
Deborah Akin
, AR Thursday, September 19, 2013 Deb Bolding, Allen Jeter, Stephen and Madra....I have heard of this decorated man all of my life; I wish I could have known him. Surely the spirit of God's love and Peace is in all the hearts of your entire family today and forever.
God bless you all.
Walter & Norma Chapman
Monticello, AR Thursday, September 19, 2013 Norma and I send our love and prayers to the Burks family. May you be comforted by the knowledge that we all are in the hands of the great Creator whose definition is love. I stand in awe of Sgt. Major Burks" accomplishments and contributions to the defense of this nation. I also am thankful for the exemplary life he led before young Marines and R.O.T.C. cadets and the instruction he gave them. R.I.P. Sgt. Major Burks; your good example will live in the memories of your friends , family and students.Ward English
Dallas, TX Thursday, September 19, 2013 Love and hugs to Guylene, Ruby, and all...Stephen Mers
Heber Springs, AR Thursday, September 19, 2013 Carry on, Sgt Maj! Carry on.Kay Burtcher
Benton, AR Thursday, September 19, 2013 Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family in this difficult time. I have known Sgt Maj for over 25 yrs. He taught my son in ROTC at Parkview. He will be missed greatly. He was a caring and giving person, cantankerous at times but we all loved him. I know he is resting with our Lord and Saviour and we will see him again. God Bless him for his service to our country and for helping to keep us free. There will be a special place in Heaven for him.Louann & James West
Laurel, DE Thursday, September 19, 2013 Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. I will miss him but am thankful of the memories...Gregg Taylor
Batesvile, AR Thursday, September 19, 2013 Semper Fidelis!Gina Sellers
North LIttle Rock, AR Thursday, September 19, 2013 Bob and I send our love and condolences to all the Burks family. It is so hard to say good bye to the patriarch in the family. He was one in a billion and life in this world will never be the same. I'm so glad I got to visit with PawPaw in his home a couple of weeks ago . As always, he praised his kids, grand kids, and great grand kids. He loved you all so much., and was so proud of you! His personal practice of generosity, gratitude, unfailing love, acceptance, and sense of humor will live on in those who know him. Rest in peace, dear Pop. We love you and will never forget.Michelle Davis
, TX Wednesday, September 18, 2013 Paulette my thoughts and prayers are with you and family during this time. love always, michelle