Raymond D. Burgess

Raymond Dale Burgess, age 80, of Monkey Island, OK, passed away peacefully at his home on March 17, 2025. Born on August 14, 1944, in Terlton, OK, he was preceded in death by his parents, Isaac Henry and Mary Christine Burgess and two brothers and a sister. Raymond lived a life marked by service, dedication, and love for his family, friends, and community. Raymond proudly served in the United States Navy, where he demonstrated his commitment to his country and honed a sense of discipline that guided him throughout his life. After his time in the Navy, Raymond became a firefighter in Newark, California and then moved to Oklahoma where he spent 24 years as a firefighter with the Tulsa Fire Department, and where he made lifelong friendships and earned the respect of his colleagues for his bravery, work ethic, and unwavering dedication to the safety of others. A man of many talents, Raymond was an avid golfer and fisherman, spending countless hours enjoying the outdoors with family and friends and his beloved dog, Daisy Mae. He was also a skilled water and snow skier, and had a tremendous love for adventure and travel. Raymond's passion for the Oklahoma Sooners, football, gardening and his flair for decorating during the Christmas season were well-known, bringing joy and beauty to those around him year after year. Above all, Raymond was a devoted family man. He cherished his role as a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His love for his wife, Peggy Howard-Burgess, was deep and enduring, and together, they created a home filled with warmth, laughter, and love. He took great pride in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, always striving to be a role model and a source of strength for his family. Raymond is survived by his beloved wife, Peggy; his brother, Wayne and wife Donna of Elk Grove, CA; his sister, Nancy Crossland of Cleveland, OK; and his sister, Connie and husband Chris King of Hominy, OK. He also leaves behind three daughters, Kayla (Steve) Mann of Grove, OK., Christie Burgess of Edmond, OK., and Merideth (Greg) Pollard of Springfield, Missouri and a wonderful group of grandchildren and great grandchildren. He truly leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of his children, grandchildren Nettie Jo, Jessica, Raegan, Jarrod, and Andrea and 7 great-grandchildren, and many friends. A memorial service celebrating Raymond's life will be held Waterloo Road Baptist Church, Edmond, OK, on April 4, 2025 at 1:00pm. An additional celebration will be held a 4:00 pm on Saturday, April 26, 2025 at the Burgess home, 30397 S 567 Rd. #63, Monkey Island, Oklahoma. The family wishes to express their gratitude to all who have supported them during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Monkey Island Fire Department (56298 E 295 Rd. Afton, OK 74331) in Raymond’s honor or to a charity of your choice. Raymond will be deeply missed but never forgotten. His kindness, generosity, and zest for life will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

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Raymond D. Burgess

August 14, 1944 - March 17, 2025