Edward W. Burris, Belleville, Illinois, born July 5, 1925, passed away Friday, August 2, 2024, in Phoenix, Arizona where he resided for the past nine years.
Edward was preceded in death by his wife, Betty (nee Mowery), his parents, Ruth C. (Goss) and Monroe C. Burris, Sr. as well as his brother, Monroe C. Burris, Jr. (Lillian) and his sister Marie Burris. Edward is survived by his two daughters, Sheryl Burris of Las Vegas, Nevada, and Judy Burris Schueler, Phoenix, Arizona. Also surviving are his three grandchildren: Lindsay Schueler of Chicago, Kyle Schueler of Phoenix, Arizona, and Thomas Edward Deets, Belleville and his two great granddaughters Jaiselle and Lucia Saavedra.
Edward attended Belleville Township High School, an excellent tennis player, advancing to the state finals in 1943 before enlisting in the U.S. Army. He served in the Italian campaign during WWII earning two Purple Hearts. After the war, Edward worked as a chemical engineer at Monsanto Chemical Company for over 30 years.
Mr. Burris was elected to the Board of Education for Harmony-Emge-Ellis Schools, District 175 and Belleville Township High Schools, District 201, spanning 35 years of service to the community. During his tenure, he was recognized for his support in the founding of Belleville Area College, an advocate for Special Education programs, as well as championing equal opportunity for girls to participate in interscholastic sports. His love of sports led him to coaching in the Belleville Girls’ Khoury Softball League earning two city-wide championship titles. In retirement, he was an avid golfer, securing his last hole in one at the age of ninety.
A real life #GIRLDAD and a longstanding Belleville Maroon fan. 99 years young a life well-lived.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Private interment at Jefferson Barracks’ National Veteran Cemetery, St. Louis, Missouri.
