Adulting is not fun

Headstone for Betty and Haskell Burks 

My dad died three years ago.  

My brother, sister, and I buried his ashes two weeks ago in Westview Cemetery.  

Honestly, I still don't get it.  Meaning, it is hard for me to believe and accept that he is not here.  That he is in another plane, another reality, and not my reality.  

Pops didn't die due to COVID.  But, he passed during the COVID craziness.  

My dad was known as Mr. Dependable.  He was a residential real estate agent and broker on the Southside of Atlanta for over 50 years.  It's amazing how many people know him and his legacy in East Point, College Park, Fayetteville, and beyond.  

He was a volunteer at the Chambers of Commerce, the Methodist Church, and more Realtor Boards than I can name.  

He was a good man.  Loyal to his wife, Betty Burks.  He was loyal to his children:  Michael, Alan, and Laurie.  

He never made a lot of money, but he provided.  Us kids thought we were rich.  

He joined the Navy at age 17 when WWII was roiling, after being the leader of the ROTC at Russell High School.  He wanted to be a gunner in a B-52.  But the fact that he wore glasses ruled him out of that.  

My dad wasn't overly demonstrative.  He was a quiet man.  Strong and quiet.  Much like his dad, my Big Papa, Jesse Kirby Burks.  

Pops, you were such a leader in your own way.  People respected you in the communities where we lived.  

I believe your strong silent leadership was passed down.  Maybe skipped a generation.  Mike is kinda hot (brother you are free to disagree) and no doubt Laurie has Mom's fire.  I honestly believe Ali, Pete, and Zac got your genes.  And, Oliver may well have them.  

Dad, I can't believe you are gone.  I don't know how Heaven works, but I hope you are reunited with Mom and all of your friends.  

Please know that I hope to honor your legacy by being a good human.  I've got a lot of Mom in me.  And that's a good thing.  But Pops, you were the coolest dude in the midst of many storms.  

Rest easy.  You worked so hard to get to this place.  

We thank you for your quiet strength and guidance.  

I know you are in Heaven because you had faith in Jesus.  

I wish we could go to one more Braves game together.  

I love you and miss you, but you are not buried in Westview Cemetery.  You are in Heaven with Mom, Woody, Marylou, Gene, The Garcias, and so many more.  

I'll see you soon.

ab