Alma Ethel Powell Burks

Alma Ethel Powell Burks, 88, of Big Island, died on Wednesday, July 14, 2010.  She was the wife of the late Harford Allen Burks, Sr.  Alma was born on January 17, 1922 in Clifton Forge, a daughter of the late Mirma Paxton Powell and the late William Melvin Powell. Alma was a gifted and talented artist and was a member of Big Island Baptist Church.

She is survived by her sons, H. Allen Burks, Jr. and his wife, Barbara and Larry Richard Burks all of Big Island; nine grandchildren, twenty-three great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.  In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased by a son, Stephen C. Burks, a daughter, Cheryl Diane Burks Day, two brothers and four sisters.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday July 16, 2010 at Big Island Baptist Church and other times at the residence.  A funeral service will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Saturday July 17, 2010 at Big Island Baptist Church with the Rev. Bryon LePere officiating.  Burial will follow at Big Island Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Big Island Baptist Church, P.O. Box 348, Big Island, VA, 24526; or American Heart Association, P.O. Box 5216, Glen Allen, VA.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family, 434-237-9424.