James Burgs, Sr.

Obituary of James A. Burgs, Sr.

Brigadier General James Aaron Burgs, Sr., blessed whomever he encountered over his 93 years earth side, and his life is celebrated, as well lived and well loved. James was born on September 5, 1929, in Live Oak, Florida, to the late Mr. Aaron Burgs, Jr., and Ester (Broom) Burgs. James was the youngest and only boy of 3 children. James peacefully passed on March 1, 2023 in Columbia, SC.

James grew up on his parents' farm in Live Oak, Fl., where he was educated until entering Florida A&M College (present day Florida A &M University), where he obtained his Associates in Agriscience in 1949. James became a member of Kappa Alpha Psi, Fraternity Inc. in February 1946, while attending FAMC/FAMU. James received his Bachelor of Science from Park College in 1985.

James entered the US Army in 1952, where he specialized in personnel and administration, and was a veteran to both the Vietnam and Korean Wars. James retired from the Army after serving nearly 28 years and was awarded the Combat Infantry Badge; the Bronze Star Medal, for service in Vietnam; the Army Meritorious Service medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster; the Joint Services Commendation Medal; and the Army Commendation Medal, with Oak Leaf Cluster, in addition to 8 awards of the Good Conduct Medal and service medals for Korea and Vietnam.

James served as a South Carolina State Guard for several years and was sworn in as a Brigadier General on June 5, 1997.

James also retired from Housing Authority for the State of South Carolina, Richland County Sheriff's Department, as well as owned a company with his late son, 'Jim and Son Contracting' for several years.

James served in membership and leadership capacities over his lifetime, actively serving his community. The following are some of the organizations he was active in: Berkeley Forest Homeowners Association (president), FAMU SC Association (past president), VFW Post 641 (Post Commander, Judge Advocate, Chaplain, and Sergeant), member of the US Military Retiree Association, Military Order of the Cootie of the United States, and National Order of Trenchrats. James was also a Prince Hall Free Mason.

James was married to the late Juanita Peralta for over 50 years and from their union, created 2 children, Sauda and the late James Jr. Through James's military career, the family lived in several states in the US including California and Hawaii, as well as overseas in Taiwan and Germany.  James and Juanita settled in Columbia, SC following James's retirement from the military.

James was a faithful Baptist and member of First Baptist Church of Lykesland for over 40 years and served as a Deacon.

James was affectionally known by several names, including Jim, Dad, Grandpa, and the General.

James was predeceased by his wife of over 50 years, Juanita Peralta Burgs, only son, James Burgs, Jr., and 2 sisters, Gertrude Jones and Rothia Lee Harris. Left to continue his legacy is his only daughter, Sauda Baraka (Allen); 5 grandchildren, Ankhesenpaaten Jones, Akwesi Jones Sr. (Genise), Jami Jones (Diana), Shani Blank (Brandon), and Elijah Jones; 7 great-grandchildren, Kaianni Jones, Akwesi Jones, Jr., Kali Jones, Xavier Blank, Khari Jones, Zahara Blank, and Ysabella Blank; One Godson, Gabriel William Scott;  his favorite cousin, Willie Mae Burney "Sister"; a special friend, Miriam Lawrence; longtime friend, Dr. Ezell Pitman; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

James never met a stranger and was the life of the party. He was always ready to travel, laugh, and have a good time. He will be immensely missed and forever cherished.

Thursday
9
March

Visitation

10:00 am - 11:00 am
Thursday, March 9, 2023
First Baptist Church of Lykesland
2712 Trotter Rd.
Hopkins, South Carolina, United States
Thursday
9
March

Funeral Service

11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Thursday, March 9, 2023
First Baptist Church of Lykesland
2712 Trotter Rd.
Hopkins, South Carolina, United States
Thursday
9
March

Interment

12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Thursday, March 9, 2023
Greenlawn Memorial Park
845 Leesburg Road
Columbia, South Carolina, United States
803-776-1092
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