Graydon Clinton Burks

Graydon Clinton Burks was born in Newnan, Georgia on December 1, 1927; one of five children born to the late Graydon Clines and Agnes Borders Burks. In addition to his parents, Clinton was predeceased by a sister, Christine Banks and a brother Harold Burks. Clinton, as did many of his contemporaries, heeded the call of his country to serve in the military as the storm clouds of World War II were gathering. He was stationed at Fort Custer in Battle Creek, Michigan where many combat soldiers were trained including those who would become a part of the Normandy invasion forces. Friendships made there would be those to last throughout his life. Following the service, he returned to Newnan in 1947 and began a 42-year career as an agent for Independent Life and Accident Insurance Company. At the time of his retirement in 1988, he was serving as a district manager. All work and no play would make for a stressful life, so Clinton had no trouble filling up his down time with his love of golf, coaching little league and spending memorable time with his family. He helped organize the Newnan Little League and enthusiastically devoted many hours helping his son Tony become the best ball player he could be. Many happy hours were spent at the Newnan Country Club with friends and his wife Nancy. He may have met his match in trying to offer her tips, as she was competent at the game in her own right! Clinton’s greatest joys in life were the times he spent with his family and also his church family during the years he served as a deacon and Sunday School teacher at Nancy’s home church, Elim Baptist. Oh, and, yes, he was a great fan of the Braves, his Georgia Bulldogs and the golf channel was in the background whenever he was at home. If there were any questions, he could immediately offer on the spot commentaries. Clinton was a longtime member of The Newnan Country Club and served as an Exalted Ruler for the Newnan Elks Lodge. A defining moment in Clinton’s life was his marriage on October 20, 1945 to his beloved Nancy Hardegree. The following years of love and laughter and precious memories would provide a strong foundation as they made a home for themselves and truly lived the example of faithfulness and dedication to each other before their children. His children Tony (and wife Karen) Burks and Debbie (and husband Tom) Stuckey had to look no further than their parents if there was any doubt about how to live a well-grounded life. Clinton cherished his role as a grandfather to Allison (Braulio) and great grandson Jack. He is survived by his sisters Imogene (and Bobby) Rooks, Elizabeth (and Charles) Gordon along with many nieces and nephews. Family friend Dennis Drewyer, self proclaimed oldest son, and wife Cheryl were always close by. Maggie Corbett, devoted and loving caregiver, holds a special place in the family's hearts, and Brookdale staff cared deeply about him as well. Clinton’s life will be lovingly remembered in a service to be held on Thursday, July 20, 2017 at 2:00 PM in the chapel of McKoon Funeral Home led by Dr. Winford Hendrix and Pastor Chip Gordon. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home at 38 Jackson Street. In lieu of flowers, it is suggested that memorial contributions may be made to Elim Baptist Church 1529 Handy Road Newnan, GA 30263. Online condolences may be expressed at www.mckoon.com. McKoon Funeral Home 770-253-4580.

Graydon Clinton Burks

December 1, 1927 - July 17, 2017