Life changes happen fast with me, no sooner than I had written about my husband’s passing than I learned that my father would not be with us much longer. What was supposed to be an in & out surgery for my father, turned into the unthinkable, he was not going to come home after all. Twenty-five days later…

On Sunday, December 17, 2023, Clarence Rouse “Joe” Burgess passed away in Richmond, Virginia. He was born on January 20, 1936, to Joseph Powel Burgess and Lenore Averette Rouse in Athens, Georgia. His parents and maternal family doted on him as an only child, including his Aunt Ellen, Uncle Hervey, and Grandmother Sallie Rouse.

Joe left on his final flight and the feature presentation undoubtedly showcased his beloved Sheila Janet McMeekin, whom he married on August 12, 1955, who took to the heavens herself on March 14, 2002. On his mind were his two children, David (Karen) and me… Susan Burgess Hoffman (whose late husband, Ron Hoffman, was waiting to greet him).

And let’s not forget the six grandchildren, who, in true Joe fashion, were loved even before they made their grand entrance into the world. The supporting cast includes KellyAnne H (Daniel), Kathryn B (Gary), Colleen H (Melissa), Andrew H (late wife Leah), Meghan B (CJ), and Hannah B (Matt). But hold your chuckles, folks, because that’s not all! Brace yourselves for the grand finale – a whopping thirteen great-grandkids! Joe’s legacy of chaos and joy marches on!

Now, onto the epic flashback scenes! Picture Joe in his Army days, where he insisted the best memories were made, including his much talked of time in Germany, then a detour with the Air Force, and service with the MD & VA National Guards. Oh, and don’t forget the Civil Air Patrol in high school, because every good movie needs a quirky teenage subplot.

The narrative smoothly transitions to Joe’s time in the airline business, strutting his stuff at Trans World Airlines and United Airlines. He enjoyed working at the airports and meeting so many people as well as traveling. But the show doesn’t stop there—cue episodes from his diverse career, including the glamorous world of chauffeuring, ensuring people reached their destinations with style and safety.

And what’s a blockbuster without action sequences? Joe was the mastermind behind countless war games, the artist who meticulously painted thousands of soldiers and the visionary who brought environments to life. How many styrofoam boards does he have hidden away? Along the way, he formed bonds with comrades like Ray Mowery, the late Pete Jameson, Steve St Clair, Jack Clancy, and his very own “Band of Brothers” from the Civil War Reenactment groups. From the Stonewall Brigade in the ’80s to the cherished Stribling’s Fauquier Battery, where he proudly held the title of “Private” for 33 years, and made great friends like John Favors and Adrian Swart who came to visit Joe in his last days. Joe relished every moment, making history cool again.

As the credits rolled on Joe’s final flight, he took with him the knowledge that he was cherished by those who knew him. He leaves behind a family poised to continue his stories, creating new ones with him as the eternal inspiration. In the grand theater of life, Joe Burgess was a leading man, and his performance will be remembered with laughter, love, and just a touch of the unexpected. Cheers to the guy who made life one heck of a show!

Dad and Mom, together again. Always.