Tommy Burke Obituary

Tommy W. Burke

September 19, 1944 -

January 10, 2026

KINGSPORT - Tommy W. Burke, 81, of Kingsport, went to be with our Lord and Savior on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at NHC Rehab following a lengthy illness.

He was born on September 19, 1944, in Scott County, VA, to the late Samuel and Wilma Gray Burke. Tommy graduated from Nickelsville High School where he was an outstanding athlete in both baseball and basketball. After graduation, he went to work at the Kingsport Press where he had 31 years of service. Following his retirement, Tommy worked at Davy Crockett High School for 15 years. He loved gardening, cooking and baking, was a Dodger Superfan all his life and loved Duke basketball. Tommy was a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend.

In addition to his parents, Tommy was preceded in death by his brother, Samuel Burke, Jr. and niece, Allison Gray Burke.

Left to cherish Tommy's memory are his daughters, Robin Burke Price, Rebecca Mitchell and special son-in-law, David Mitchell; son, Caleb Burke (Juliana); grandchildren, Ryan Burke, David Mitchell (Rachael), Lindy Salyers (Dustin), Zachary Mitchell, Jordy Mitchell (Leslie), and Kenzie Thomas; nine great-grandchildren; brothers, Gerald Burke (Ann) and Ronald Burke (Tammy); sister, Carolyn Lane; a niece, two nephews, and special friend, Landon Masters.

The family will receive friends from 5:30 – 7:30 pm, Tuesday, January 13, 2026, in the chapel of Oak Hill Funeral Home.

A Celebration of Tommy's life will begin at 12:00 pm, Wednesday, January 14, 2026, in the chapel of Oak Hill Funeral Home with Pastor Tim Hodges officiating.

Graveside Service will follow in the Garden of the Last Supper at Oak Hill Memorial Park.

His grandsons will serve as pallbearers.

Honorary pallbearers will include his great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Tommy's honor St. Jude’s, Shriners Hospital, or the charity of your choice.

To share memories and condolences with the family, please visit www.oakhillfh.com.

The care of Tommy W. Burke and his family have been entrusted to the staff of Oak Hill Funeral & Cremation Services.