Homer Eugene “Gene” Burroughs, Sr.: Tabor City

1934 – 2023

     Homer Eugene “Gene” Burroughs, Sr. of Tabor City passed away peacefully at his residence Monday, Sept. 25. He was 89.

     He was born in Tabor City on June 23, 1934. Gene’s parents were the late Volley Reece Burroughs, Sr. and Mildred Harrelson Burroughs.

     In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Volley Reece Burroughs, Jr.; and sister, Rebecca Mitchell.

     He is survived by his wife, Shirley Norris Burroughs of 68; two children, Homer Eugene Burroughs, Jr. of Tabor City and Julia B. Lockhead (John) of Durham; and two grandchildren, Tanner Lockhead and Holly Lockhead, both of Washington DC.

     Gene was a kind and gentle man who loved his family, his church, and town. He served as Deacon and elder in Tabor City Presbyterian Church and as deacon in Tabor City Baptist Church. He was a made a “Lifetime Deacon” in Tabor City Baptist Church on Oct. 23, 2022. He was in the Tabor City Rotary Club for years and held many offices in the organization, including President. He was awarded the Paul Harris Fellowship Award by the local club on June 26, 2000.

     Gene was a very skilled and artistic person. His artistic ability and welding skills can be observed in his home, and many homes in town. He also built the Tabor City Town Gate.

     A very special “Thank You” to Martha Riggins, Sarah Williams, and Kim Shipman for helping take care of Gene for all the years he has been sick.

     Graveside services were planned for 11 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 28, in Forest Lawn Cemetery, Tabor City, with visitation following in the cemetery.

     Family requests that memorials be made to Tabor City Baptist Church P.O. Box 126 Tabor City, NC 28463 or to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare Foundation, 1414 Physicians Dr. Wilmington, NC 28401-7335.

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