Elaine Burgess

Mrs. Patricia Elaine Burgess, a devoted woman of faith, a loving mother, grandmother, and friend, went to be with her Lord and Savior on March 7, 2025 at the age of 84. She passed peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on February 2, 1941 in Union County, SC, a daughter of the late Jessie James Williford and Viola Taylor Williford and was the widow of William Carroll Burgess, Sr., Elaine lived a life marked by an unwavering devotion to God. Her faith was the foundation of her life, guiding her in all that she did. Elaine was the longest living active member of Fairview Baptist Church where she taught the Juanita Crocker Sunday School class for many years and also served as a Youth teacher. A faithful servant, she was deeply involved in her church, where she found joy in worship, fellowship, and serving others. She had a heart for ministry, always willing to lend a hand, pray for those in need, and share the love of Christ with everyone she met.

Her greatest joy, however, was her family. She poured her heart into her home, always ensuring that those she loved felt cared for, and uplifted.

A true steward of the land, Elaine found great peace in farming and gardening. She had a deep love for nature and took pride in the work of her hands. Whether tending to the land, caring for her animals, or cultivating a garden full of vibrant flowers, she saw God's handiwork in every seed she planted.

Elaine leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and hard work. Though she will be deeply missed, her spirit lives on in the lessons she taught, the lives she touched, and the love she gave so freely. She was the last surviving member of her immediate family.

She is survived by a daughter, Melody Ann Yon and husband Chad; a son, Clarence Burgess all of Union; and a sister-in-law, Patsy Poole of Gaffney. She is survived by grandchildren, Andrew Carter and wife Ginalee, Kaitlyn Hixson and husband Cody, Anna Burgess, Billy Burgess and wife Nikki and Katie Fincher; great-grandchildren, Haleigh Burgess, Morgan Chesnut, Peyton Burgess, Mason Carter, Luke Johnson, Trace Johnson and MJ Fincher; a several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a son, Carroll "Luke" Burgess, a grandson, Logan Carter, a sister, Mary Rose Robinette and a brother, Jessie James Williford, Jr.

The family wishes to say a special Thank You to Clara Robinette and the staff and nurses of Spartanburg Regional Hospice for the care and compassion shown to Elaine and her family for the past three years.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 PM, Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at Fairview Baptist Church conducted by Rev. Guy Langston. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Visitation will be held Tuesday from 2:00 until 3:00 PM at the church prior to the services.

Active pallbearers will be Mike Patterson, Steve Patterson, Jimmy Robinette, Josh Williford, Kenny Horne and Dennis Nix.

Memorials may be made to Fairview Baptist Church, PO Box 37, Union, SC 29379.

The family will be at the home 124 Williford Rd., Union.