Thomas “Tommy” S. Burke (1938 – 2025)

Thomas “Tommy” S. Burke, 86. of Warrenton, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 21, 2025.

Thomas “Tommy” S. Burke

He was born September 4, 1938, in Warren County, Virginia, the son of the late Wilson J. Burke, Sr., and Mary Whitbeck.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 61 years, Margaret E. Burke; daughter, Sheila Burke and husband Brian Chittum of Roanoke, Virginia; daughter, Vicky Burke-Southard and husband George W. Southard, Jr. of Warrenton, Virginia; was known as “Graddy” to Bryan Chumley, Aaron Southard and Mark Southard; and his siblings, Stewart Burke, Clara Thompson, Anna Baer and Weltie Kelly.

Tommy worked the family farm, owned a service station, and served two years in the U.S. Army. After discharge, he was employed by Atlantic Research Corp., Gainesville, Virginia, as a small rocket technician. In 1974, he joined Trible Equipment, Inc. of Warrenton as a farm machinery mechanic and worked there until he retired as Service Manager in July 2003.

Tommy was known for his warm sense of humor and keen interest in antique farm machinery, particularly 2-stroke John Deere tractors. He thoroughly enjoyed showing his antique tractors in local parades. He lived to fix things, had many friends in the Fauquier County farming community, and was always eager to lend anyone a hand.

Tommy’s greatest joy in his life was his family. He will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Maddox Funeral Home in Front Royal, VA. Interment will follow immediately in Panorama Memorial Gardens, 4917 Strasburg Road, Strasburg, Virginia.

Memorial contributions may be made to your local SPCA or hospice organization.