Joseph Freeman Burgess Jr.

In Loving Memory of Joseph Freeman Burgess Jr.

May 13, 1947 – March 22, 2026

In the quiet turning of the years, when the road grows long and the evening light softens upon the hills, Joseph Freeman Burgess of Rome, Georgia, laid down his earthly burdens and passed from this life on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at the age of seventy-eight. Born in Tifton, Georgia, on May 13, 1947, to the late Joseph and Lucille Burgess, Sr., he came into the world as one destined for steadfast labor, enduring love, and the simple joys that make a life well-lived.

Joseph walked many roads in his days, both literal and figurative. A truck driver by trade and the proud owner of Burgess Transport, he knew the highways as a mariner knows the sea, steady in purpose and faithful in his calling. Yet, for all the miles he traveled, his truest compass always pointed home.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce Burgess, with whom he shared a lifelong bond, having joined hands and hearts in marriage on November 28, 1964. Together they built a life rich in devotion and quiet strength. He also leaves behind his sons, Stanley Burgess (Pam) and Terry Burgess; his daughters, Brenda Smith and Belinda Pilcher; eleven grandchildren; and twenty-two great-grandchildren, each a living testament to the legacy he nurtured with care. His brothers, Carson Burgess and Dennis Burgess, remain to honor his memory, along with a host of nieces and nephews who will remember him with fondness and gratitude.

Joseph now rejoins those who have gone before him: his parents, Joseph and Lucille Burgess, Sr.; his daughter, Shelia Lee; his great-granddaughter, Maggie Jeter; and his brother, Walter Burgess. Though parted for a time, their reunion is sure and steadfast beyond the veil.

A man of faith, Joseph was a devoted member of New Bethel Baptist Church, where he found fellowship and strength. He was also a member of the Shriners, walking in brotherhood and service. In the quieter moments of life, he found joy in the stillness of fishing waters, the thrill of the hunt, and the gentle challenge of the golf course. Yet above all these pursuits, he cherished most the time spent among his family, where laughter was plentiful and love ran deep.

Thus ends the tale of a man who lived not for grandeur, but for goodness; not for acclaim, but for those he held dear. His was a life of quiet nobility, written not in great deeds alone, but in the countless small kindnesses that endure far longer than stone.

Services to honor Joseph’s life will take place at the Good Shepherd Funeral Home chapel with a Visitation on Wednesday, March 25, 2026 from 6:00PM till 8:00PM with a Funeral Service on Thursday, March 26, 2026 at 11:00AM, with Pastor Jamie Moore officiating. Joseph will be laid to rest at Oaknoll Memorial Gardens. 

Good Shepherd Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.

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