Giles Wayne Burke

Giles Wayne Burke, born March 25th, 1952, passed away peacefully on December 9, 2025, in Abingdon, Virginia. A devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Known for his steady presence, warm heart, and quiet strength, he touched the lives of everyone around him. His legacy will continue through the love he gave and the memories he leaves behind.

He is survived by his daughter, Shelia Marie; three brothers: Jimmy R. Burke and wife Brenda, Bruce B. Burke and wife Sandy, and Michael A. Burke and wife Wanda. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews. His ex-wife, Lisa, with whom he remained friends, and Faye Burke, a niece who lived locally and visited when she could, bringing comfort and companionship in her own quiet ways.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert R. Burke; his mother, Margaret L. Anderson Burke; sisters, Frances L. Burke and Gaylene Burke-Puckett; and brothers, George A. Burke, Walter M. Burke, Charles E. Burke, Paul Ed. Burke, and Robert Casey Burke.

He deeply loved his daughter, Shelia. She was his pride and joy, and the bond they shared was strong and unbreakable. He supported her through every stage of life and was proud of the family she built. He cherished his granddaughter, Diedra, who held a special place in his heart. He was always there for her — whether it meant sitting in the audience at her dance recitals, watching her during band competitions, or simply cheering her on in life. His love for her was unwavering and evident in all the ways he showed up for her.

He also cherished his grandchildren Tyler Arnold and Austin Arnold, holding them close in his heart.

His heart grew even fuller when he became a great-grandfather. He especially loved his great grandson, Cayden Kemp Walker, whom he affectionally called his little weightlifter and loved so, so much. The love he had for his family was immense, and his gentle guidance, kindness, and quiet strength will be remembered and carried on by all who knew him.

His daughter, Shelia, wants to express the depth of her love and the weight of her loss. “I loved him more than words can express,” Shelia says, “and I don’t know how I’ll go on without him.”

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18

A visitation will take place on Tuesday December 16, 2025, in the Frost Funeral Home Chapel in Abingdon, VA from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M.

Frost Funeral Home and Cremation Services is honored to serve the family of Mr. Giles Wayne Burke.