Wayne Burke

Due to Covid-19 Guidelines, only 40 people are allowed. The first 40 people will be allowed entry for service.

Service will be streamed on Zoom at 12noon

Meeting id: 568 804 9846, passcode: 560726

Wayne Torrence Burke was born in Albany, NY on February 14, 1957 to William and Antoinette ( Leis) Burke.

Wayne’s elementary school education was in the Albany Public school system. His high school education was at St.Joseph’s Academy until it closed. Wayne then attended and graduated from Milne High School in 1975.

Wayne was an avid basketball fan. His love of basketball was evident on the court, while playing for St. Joseph’s Academy and Milne High School. During the summer months, Wayne would play at the Swan Street basketball courts, often participating in tournaments.

Wayne was one of the first high school athletes chosen to play in the first Black All Star Basketball games at the Junior College of Albany (JCA). Scoring 34 points in that game. He was a lifelong Knicks fan.

In June, 1977, Wayne married Carol Hill and from this union in September of 1978 a son Marcel Ramon Burke was born.

Wayne later relocated to Miami, Florida and with Bridget Starks they welcomed a son, Khari Damani Burke on March 30. 1992.

Wayne leaves to mourn his loss: Sons: Marcel R.Burke ( Brittish) of Chicago, IL; Khari D. Burke of Miami, Fl; 5 grandchildren, sister: Emily Murphy, Williamsburg,VA; close family friends Cecilia Goolsby, Albany,NY; Nine nieces and nephews. Best friends: Michael Russell ( Crystal), John Brewer, Russell Tucker, Fred Anderson and Clarence ( Zeke) Moore. Special Friend Betty J. Wall and a host of relatives and friends.

Wayne was predeceased by his parents Willam and Antoinette Burke, Sister Isabella and brother-in-law Freeman Joseph Butcher. Brothers Melvin and Louis Leis, William and Anthony Burke. Sisters Nancey Boykin and Pauline Carr.