Earnest (Turk) Franklin Burke, age 82, of Wildersville, Tennessee died Friday, September 28, 2018. Born in Old Hickory. Tennessee on August 27, 1936 to Clyde Wilson and Gladys L. Burke. He served in the Air National Guard, worked at the Nashville Gas Co. for 20 years and the State of Tennessee as a Natural Gas Inspector from which he retired in 2003. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a sister, Lib McFarland; brothers, Clyde E. and Wallace Burke.
Survived by his wife, Mary Ella Johnson Burke of Wildersville; son, Michael Wilson Burke of Perryville, TN; daughter, Jennifer (Paul) Anderson of Memphis; beloved granddaughter, Ella Bradley Anderson of Memphis; sister, Beverly Collins of College Grove, TN; and brother, Randall (Judy) of Hermitage, TN.
He was a great friend of the Walking Horse family for over six decades. From his days as an outstanding halter exhibitor (he was the first person to show Prides Generator) to stallion manager at Tamarack Acres (Prides Gold Coin, Mark of Carbon, Ebony’s Threat) & Shadow Valley Farm (Sun’s Delight, Ace’s Sensation, Generator), he conducted himself with the utmost professionalism & integrity. Our sincerest condolences to Mary Ella, Mike, Jennifer & family. He will be greatly missed!