Raymond Burks Funeral
Notes
Transcript
Order of Service:
Welcome & Acknowledgements
And now, dear brothers and sisters, we want you to know what will happen to the believers who have died so you will not grieve like people who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and was raised to life again, we also believe that when Jesus returns, God will bring back with him the believers who have died.
We tell you this directly from the Lord: We who are still living when the Lord returns will not meet him ahead of those who have died. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. First, the believers who have died will rise from their graves. Then, together with them, we who are still alive and remain on the earth will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. Then we will be with the Lord forever. So encourage each other with these words.
Song selection chosen by Jaedan Burks
Prayer for the Family - Dr. Richard Jolliff
Reading of the Obituary - Dr. Richard Jolliff
Raymond Lewis Burks, age 64, of Alma, passed away on August 30, 2026, in Detroit, Michigan. He was born on January 15, 1962, in Lansing, Michigan, the son of Jesse F.. and George Ella (Perkins) Burks.
Raymond served his country in the United States Air Force, a chapter of his life that reflected duty and commitment. He also pursued his education and received his bachelor’s degree from Life Christian University, an achievement that spoke to his dedication and faith.
A devoted Christian and servant of the Lord Jesus Christ, Raymond lived with a deep love for his faith. He had a passion for prison ministry, a calling that reflected his heart for serving others. He was also a steady source of encouragement to his children, always supportive of their pursuits in life and proud of the paths they followed.Raymond found joy in many of the things that brought people together. He was a huge Detroit Lions fan and enjoyed following all Michigan State University sports. He always looked forward to college basketball season and especially loved watching March Madness, taking pleasure in the excitement and spirit of the game.
He is survived by his daughters, Jordyn Burks, Lauren (Matt) Lockwood; his sons, Jaedan Burks and Noah Burks; his longtime girlfriend, Melanie Bush; grandchildren, Lyam Burks, John Clever, Elijah Clever, Josh Clever, Samuel Clever, Daniel Clever, Nathaniel Clever; brothers, James C. (Mae) Burks, James E. (Heather) Burks, Sam Davis; sister, June Burks; sister-in-law, Jackie Jones; and several nieces, nephews, and friends.He was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse and George Ella (Perkins) Burks; brother, Roy Jones; and sister, Catherine Smith.
Musical selection chosen by Jordyn Burks
Reflections from His Children
Reflections from Family & Friends
(Please keep remarks to 2 minutes)
Message:
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls.
Suffering and Joy
Ray’s Salvation
Skeptical and Stubborn
Baggage he brought with him, and the struggles he had.
Ray’s Trials
Homeless
Appendicitis- multiple surgeries
Esophagus cancer
Leukemia
Ray’s Triumphs
Finished education
Life Christian University Graduate
Prison ministry with Forgotten Man Ministries
His network of people he was connected to.
God Never Promises we won’t have problems.
He does Promise to be with us through them all. Even when we can’t see Him!
Stay Ready!
Finney’s Testimony- What then?
whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.
The End of Your Faith- the Salvation of Your Soul!
Musical Selection - Stevie and Natalya Baylock
Commital Prayer - Dr. Richard Jolliff
Recessional
