William "Bill" Rush Burgess, 71, of Atkinson died Friday, September 12, 2008 at New Hanover Regional Medical Center.

He was born July 30, 1937 in Logan, WV, the son of the late Willard Jess and Opal Irene Gore Burgess. He was predeceased by a sister, Lula Belle Landrum.

Mr. Burgess served his country honorable in the US Navy.

Surviving are his loving wife of 51 years, Darles Taylor Burgess; daughter, Pamela B. McKoy of Atkinson; sisters, Mary Hand of Wilmington and Linda Richardson and her husband, David, of Darlington, SC; brother, Clyde Burgess and his wife, Mary, of Burgaw; several nieces and nephews and beloved grand-dog, Rudy.

Bill loved his family dearly and was always a good provider for his beloved wife and daughter. Being blessed by the Lord with a love of music and a great natural talent, he enjoyed playing the guitar, piano and key board. His passions in life included restoring antique cars and growing and grafting Japanese Maple trees. He was a gifted man of many talents who shared generously with others. Bill's family is grateful to God for his life and consider themselves blessed with the privilege of sharing his journey on God's good earth.

A gathering of family and close friends will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be given to Pender County Humane Society, PO Box 626, Burgaw, NC 28425.

Condolences may be sent to www.quinnmcgowen.com