James Robert Burke

James Robert “Jim” Burke
February 29, 1936 – December 20, 2025

James Robert “Jim” Burke, lovingly known as “Pappy” to his family, age 89, of Asheboro, passed away peacefully on December 20, 2025, at Clapps Nursing Home of Asheboro. He was born on February 29, 1936, in Greene County, Pennsylvania, to the late Douglas Burke and Irene Kerr Burke.

Jim was a man who lived a full and adventurous life, always guided by his love for family and his strong sense of duty. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force as a medic during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Known to many as “Big Jim,” he was admired for his strength, kindness, and steady presence.

Over the years, Jim followed many paths—working on an Alaskan fishing boat, coal mining, and serving as a merchant marine. He was never one to shy away from hard work or a new adventure. He also gave back to his community as a volunteer firefighter, where he became well known for his skill in water battles, earning recognition as one of the best nozzle men in competition.

Jim loved the simple things in life. He was a loyal Pittsburgh Steelers fan and enjoyed every chance he got to watch them play. Every vacation usually included some kind of fishing trip, and he spent many cherished days camping beside trout streams. Some of his happiest moments were by the water—whether casting a line, crabbing in Maryland, or simply enjoying the peace it brought him. His son-in-law, Randy,  took Pappy on several fishing trips to Montana over the years, but the most memorable was their last trip, when Pappy was joined by his sons-in-law, Randy and Arty,, and his son Eddie—filled with laughter, tall fish tales, and moments that will be cherished by the family forever.

More than anything, Jim was a devoted family man. As “Pappy,” he was deeply loved by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He will be remembered for his strength, his stories, his sense of humor, and the love he shared so freely. Pappy lived with his daughter Maria and her family for 17 years, where he became a constant and cherished presence in their home. He shared a special bond with his granddaughter Tori, and during her homeschooling years, he was affectionately known as the “principal,” always nearby with guidance, humor, and a watchful eye—creating memories that will be treasured forever. He also cherished the times when his son Charlie would travel down from Pennsylvania to stay with him while the family was out of town—visits filled with laughter, stories, and the kind of moments that strengthened their close bond. Pappy also greatly enjoyed spending extended time in North Carolina visiting Cindy and Arty, where he loved being with his grandchildren and exploring all that North Carolina had to offer. The family also holds close a special memory of a large family gathering in Myrtle Beach, a joyful time spent together shortly before the passing of his son Eddie—a moment that made those memories even more meaningful.

Jim was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Betty Ann Scott Burke; his son, Edward Kincheloe; his brothers, Don Burke and Tom Burke; and his sisters, Mary Lou Henderson and Jane Organt.

Left to cherish his memory are his children: Maria Cerar and husband Randy, Cynthia “Cindy” Arnold and husband Arty, Brenda Baker and husband Bob, Charlie Nyland and wife Arlene, Linda Burch and husband Marty, and Jimmy Burke; his daughter-in-law, Debbie Kincheloe; his grandchildren, Kelli, Dawn, Vaughn, Sunshine, Tiffany, Sasha, Ryan, Jay, Greg, Daytona, Charlotte, and Tori; along with many great-grandchildren and numerous other beloved family members and friends.

A graveside interment service will be held on April 25 at 11:00 a.m. at Laurel Point Cemetery, followed by a memorial service at the Nemacolin Fire Hall.

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