James Allen Burgess

Herrin- James Allen Bass Burgess, 65, of Herrin, passed away at 10:12 PM, Thursday, October 5, 2006 at his home. James was born on March 4, 1941 in Herrin to James W. & June Maxine (Rich) Burgess. He married Linda L. Leeper on July 11, 1961 in Herrin. She survives of Herrin. He served with the Seventh Fleet of the US Navy. He worked many years for Freeman Mines. He ran the Miner for many years and then worked as a mine inspector for several. He was an active member of United Mine Workers of America and served on the Safety Committee. Mr. Burgess was a member of the Herrin VFW and American Legion Posts and served with the ritual team. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting for whatever was in season and Bass fishing. He wrote and published articles for Outdoors magazines. He was president of the Porch Sitters and was known as the Neighborhood Grandpa. He considered the neighborhood kids his children and grandchildren. He helped them ride bikes and enjoyed talking with them. He was a true St. Louis Cardinals baseball fan. SURVIVORS: Wife- Linda Burgess- Herrin Son & daughter in law-William & Joyce Lee Burgess- Houston, TX Daughter- Kelly Pool- Herrin Grandchildren: Kaitlin Pool- Herrin Jessica Burgess- Houston, TX Mikayla Mouse Pool- Herrin Brother & daughter in law- Norman & Ina Burgess- Herrin Brother- Dennis Burgess- Herrin Sister & brother in law- Beverly & Joe Rosenberger- Carterville Sister & brother in law- Christine & Leo McDonald- Frisco, IN Many nieces & nephews & great nieces & nephews He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Billy Burgess and one sister, Kathy Smith. The funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM, Monday, October 9, 2006 at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin. Burial will follow at Blairsville Cemetery. Military rites will be performed by the Herrin VFW & American Legion Posts. Visitation will be from 6-9:00 PM, Sunday, October 8, 2006 at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin. In lieu of flowers the family asks that instead you take a child to dinner. For more information or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.hughesfuneralhomes.com.