Bruce Clayton Burgess

Bruce Clayton Burgess, a loving husband, brother, father, and grandfather, died peacefully at home on February 5th, 2025, at the age of 84. He is survived by his daughter, Stephanie, and her husband Robby Palmer of Mobile, Alabama, daughter, Beverly of Bell Buckle, Tennessee, son, Blake, his wife Siera, and their children, Brooks, Myla, and Hayes, of Birmingham, Alabama, and his daughter, Megan, of Morgantown, West Virginia, his brother, Richard “Dick” Burgess of McConnell, West Virginia, mother-in-law, Ann Conner, and lifelong friend, Martha Harless.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Bruce’s caregivers Donna Paynter, Bobby Rollyson, Teresa Ferguson, Heather Mitchell, and Betty Colangelo. Thank you for all your love and support, and always going above and beyond for Bruce. 

Bruce is preceded in death by his loving wife of 42 years, Debra, his parents, Leonard and Lillian Burgess, his brothers, Melvin “Buck” and Leonard “Guy”, and his sisters, Dixie Clevenger and Kathy Keyser.

Bruce was born on January 24th, 1941, in McConnell, West Virginia. He graduated from Logan High School in 1958. He went on to serve 4 years in the US Navy aboard the USS Northampton. He later moved to Gilbert, where he worked in the coal business until retirement. Over the years, he served as superintendent at a strip mine in Pete’s Branch and later established several coal companies, including Daniel’s Branch, KEDCO, and Rock House.

Beyond his dedicated career, Bruce was deeply involved in his community. He was a faithful member of Gilbert Presbyterian Church, where he served as an elder for many years. He was a proud member of the Kiwanis Club and served as president of the Gilbert Touchdown Club, where he supported local athletics. His commitment to the coal industry extended beyond his work, as he was also a member of the West Virginia Coal Association. Additionally, he served on the board of directors at the Larry Joe Harless Community Center, contributing to the betterment of his community. In his free time, Bruce enjoyed golfing, spending time with his lifelong friends, and cherished every moment spent with his beloved wife.

Friends may gather with the family Saturday, March 1, 2025, from 12:00 till 1:00 pm at the Gilbert Presbyterian Church with A Service of Witness to the Resurrection to commence at 1:00 pm with Pastor Susan Perry and Rev. Jim Musgrave officiating. 

A luncheon will follow the service at the Larry Joe Harless Community Center immediately following the service.

Bruce will be remembered for his generous spirit, strong character, and the deep love he had for his family and community. His presence will be greatly missed, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Gilbert Presbyterian Church, PO Box 496 Gilbert, WV 25621.

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