Alva Junior Burgess, 64 of Norwich, Connecticut, and formerly of Milam passed away on Aug. 31, 2025, surrounded by family and friends, after a courageous four-year battle with cancer.
He was born on Sept. 24, 1960, in Petersburg, a son of the late Alva Arthur Burgess and Pearlie Jeanette (Nelson) Burgess.
Mr. Burgess was a 1979 graduate of Moorefield High School. He served in the United States Navy during the Libya Conflict.
He was an honorary member of the VFW Post 594 in Norwich, Connecticut.
He retired from Tri-L Services in 2023 after 34 years of service.
He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was known as a “Jack of all trades.” His pastime was spending time with his family.
His wife of 42 years, Elizabeth A. (Berry) Burgess, survives.
Also surviving are a son, Timothy S. Burgess (Andrea) of Norwich, Connecticut; a daughter, Victoria E. Burgess (Thomas Peckham) of Griswold, Connecticut; a foster son, Joseph A. Dziadul (Elizabeth) of Baltic, Connecticut; seven grandchildren; two sisters, Juanita Scott of Brandywine and Wilda Libby (Larry) of Anchorage, Alaska; two brothers, Leon E. Burgess and Carl W. Burgess (Linda), all of Moorefield; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was also preceded in death by four brothers, infant Ervin Burgess, Ivan Burgess, Eston Burgess, and K. Gene Burgess; and a sister, infant Ester Mae Burgess.
In honoring his wishes, he has been cremated.
A graveside service will be held at 11:30 a.m. Oct. 11 at the North Fork Memorial Cemetery in Riverton with the Rev. Harold Cullers.
Memorial donations may be made to the Burgess family c/o Schaeffer Funeral Home, 11 North Main Street, Petersburg, WV 26847 or Elizabeth A. Burgess, 160 Spruce Street, Norwich, CT 06360 to help defray funeral expenses.
Arrangements are by Schaeffer Funeral Home in Petersburg.
