Wilma Verniece Burgess

Wilma Verniece Arivett Burgess,81, of Athens passed away on Thursday, October 6th, 2016 in her home. She was born on December 16, 1934 in Langley, AR, the daughter of the late Lawrence and Mary (Lawless) Arivett. Verniece was a homemaker and a member of Bissell Chapel in Newhope, Arkansas. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband of 60 years Billy Burgess; and two sisters; Dulene Cowart, and Glennie Hunter. She is survived by her four brothers; Hoyt Arivett, Leroy Arivett, Vernon Arivett, and Winnon Arivett; and three sisters; Thelma Phillips, Dorothea House, Jeanette Magar. She is also survived by two sons; William "Birdie" Burgess (Diane), and Wayne Burgess; and five daughters; Fran McWilliams, Vickie McClane (David), Mary Gibson (Jay), Jane Burgess, Lisa Allen (Mike), 16 Grandchildren, 24 Great-Grandchildren, and 1 Great-Great- Grandchild and host of nieces and nephews and a Sister-In-Law (Betty Lou) and a host of friends and extended family. A memorial service is set for Monday October 10, 2016 at 2:00 P.M. at Mt. Zion Church in Athens, Arkansas. The family will receive guests at Ms. Burgess's home at 122 Spring Valley Rd. Newhope, AR on Sunday October 9th, 2016 from 2:00 to 5:00 P.M. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Wilma Verniece Burgess please visit our Sympathy Store.