Robert “Bob” Edwards Burgess, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and proud United States Marine, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, humility, service, and love.

Bob was born in Fort Worth, Texas, in 1935, to John William Burgess, Sr., and Martha Edwards Reeves Burgess Settle. He grew up near Avondale Estates, Georgia, graduated from Avondale High School in 1953, attended Truett-McConnell Junior College, and graduated from Baylor University in 1958.

Bob married the love of his life, Virginia Ann Plonk, in 1957. Together, they shared 67 years of marriage, raising a family while embracing the challenges and joys of Marine Corps life.

Following college, Bob was commissioned in the United States Marine Corps, where he served with distinction for 21 years before retiring with the rank of Major in 1979. He later continued his career at the Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico until retiring. Bob and Virginia lived in White Rock, New Mexico, for more than 30 years before moving to Lakeland, Florida, in 2018 to be closer to family.

A man of quiet strength and deep faith, Bob served his church and community, including through his service as a deacon at White Rock Baptist Church. He found great joy in singing in church choirs for most of his life. Bob particularly enjoyed the outdoors, especially fishing, camping, hunting, and gardening, and loved sharing those pursuits with friends and family. He was known for his kindness, integrity, gentle spirit, and the respect he showed to everyone he met.

Bob was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Virginia; his parents; and his siblings. He is lovingly remembered by his four children, six grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, extended family, and many friends.

United States Marine Corps Military Honors will be rendered at a private graveside service in Atlanta. A separate memorial service will be held at Ansley Parke, 3110 Oakbridge Blvd. E., Lakeland, Florida, on August 8, 2026, at 1:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial gifts be made to the charity of your choice.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."                                                                                                                 — 2 Timothy 4:7