David Leroy" Tippy" Burks, Sr.

David Leroy "Tippy" Burks, Sr., a lifelong resident and beloved figure of the Winchester community, passed away peacefully on October 2, 2025, just shy of his 89th birthday. He was surrounded by family as he concluded his courageous battle. David leaves behind a rich legacy defined by his devotion to family, his passion for football, and his gift for making friends everywhere he went.

Born on October 13, 1936, David grew up in Winchester as the cherished son of Mary C. Burks. He excelled as a student-athlete at the historic Douglas School, where his time on the football field sparked a lifelong obsession with sport. He was an unwavering Pittsburgh Steelers fan, and his love for the game also extended to following the local high school teams. Those who knew him recall his pride in winning the Winchester Star's Football Forecast on two occasions.

After serving his country with honor in the U.S. Air Force, David returned home and embarked on a distinguished 36-year career as a millwright at the General Motors parts plant in Martinsburg, West Virginia. His skill and work ethic were admired by all who worked alongside him.

To his family and friends, David was known simply as "Tippy." He was the kind of man who never met a stranger, and it was a rare outing in Winchester that didn't involve him running into an old acquaintance. His ability to build and sustain friendships was a hallmark of his character, turning many friends into extended family. This spirit of community leadership led him to serve as the Exalted Ruler of the Daniel J. Farrar Elks Lodge Number 458.

David's faith was a quiet but steady force in his life. Baptized in the First Ashville Baptist Church, his last spiritual home of 8 years was at The Worshipping Without Walls Ministries, here in Winchester, VA. Under the direction of his pastor, Rev. Dr. Jonetta E. Carter.

He will be lovingly remembered by his children, Dennis Eugene Burks of South Riding, Anne Carter Burks of Atlanta GA, and Ryan David Burks of Maurertown, VA, and eleven grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews who will forever call him "Uncle Tippy." He is reunited with his mother and his late sons, James Carlton Burks and David Leroy Burks, Jr., along with his brothers, Robert "Sunny" Burks, Sr., and Jack Burks.

Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life service at Mount Carmel Baptist Church in Winchester, VA, on Friday, October 10, 2025. A viewing will be held at 10:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. Officiate, Rev. Dr. Jonetta E. Carter. A repast will be after the committal.

Interment will be at Orrick Cemetery with Military Honors, afforded by The United States Air Force and VFW Post 2123 of Winchester.

Ministry of Comfort Entrusted to

Cartwright Funeral Home

Winchester, Virginia

cartwrightfuneralhome.com