Born: May 14, 1935 - Deceased: June 26, 2024
Carolyn Sue Burke, nee Hall, 89, of Belleville, IL, born May 14, 1935, in Herrin, IL, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 26, 2024 at her home in Belleville, IL.
Carolyn was raised in Herrin, IL and married her high school sweetheart, Jack, while attending SIU Carbondale. Following her passions, she founded White Oak Academy and directed the APSL Reading Program. As a member of Union United Methodist Church, Carolyn enjoyed singing in the choir and attending Bible studies.
Carolyn’s entire life revolved around her family. She loved being a coach’s wife, spending many hours at Belleville East events. She was an avid supporter of all of her family’s sporting events and activities. She was a faithful and caring wife, mom, grandma, and Gum Gum.
She was preceded in death by her:
- Parents: Ophie and Mary Lavina Hall (nee Cripps)
- Sister and brother-in-law: Jane and Ed Schweinberg
Surviving are her:
- Husband of 67 years: John “Jack” O. Burke of Belleville, IL
- Children
- Lori (Scott) Hagely of Webster Groves, MO
- Scott (Peggy) Burke of Belleville, IL
- Kari (Alan) Farmer of Columbia, IL
- Brother: Rev. Jack (Millie) Hall of Shawneetown, IL
- Grandchildren
- Jason (Katy) Hagely
- Rachel (Steve Justus) Burke
- Kassi Farmer
- Kalli (Dalton) Collins
- Korbin Farmer
- Great grandchildren
- Noah, Rose, and Lucy Hagely
- Several nieces, nephews, family members, and friends
Memorials: Memorials may be made to the Union United Methodist Church in Belleville, IL.
Services: Private services will be held at the request of the family.
12 Comments
I received lasting memories being with Carolyn for many years. Jack and Carolyn remain steadfast friends along our life journey’s together . Belleville East baseball was our focus for many years. Carolyn was my inspiration by pointing me in a right decision to follow Jesus. Blessings
The FCA family is praying for your family. Thank God for Carolyn’s faith and how she passed it on!
Carolyn and Jack were dedicated to all their life’s endeavors and their faith was obviously at the top. Their family was their pride and joy. They valued
their careers as educators and as a coach. It won’t be easy for Jack to go on without her but knowing they will be together again one day and the family love they shared will sustain him. What a joy to have Carolyn as a part of our Bible studies and United Methodist Women.
Dear JACK and the entire BURKE FAMILY, Deepest condolences for your loss. You were fortunate to have the time you had together. Stay strong together. Sincerely, Gus Damann
Jack, Lori, Scott and Kari –
Please accept my heartfelt condolences. I have so many wonderful memories of Carolyn Sue being at the family reunions, Grandma Cripps’ home and weddings. She had a genuine smile always and was a beacon of joy. I know Mom cherished her cousins and relished the days they spent together. Wishing all of you peace and comfort.
Dear Jack,
Marva and I are so sorry for your loss. Carolyn and you, and all of your parents, were an inspiration to me growing up in church and in school, and Carolyn was always the most beautiful caring person ever. God blessed you with a wonderful companion and a loving family to help share your pain. We find comfort in knowing we will be together soon.
We are praying for you “Honey.”
Dear Jack and family, my deepest sympathy to all. I am so sadden to learn of her passing.. I was her name sake Carolyn Sue,, so I always felt very close to Carolyn. We grew up together and the Hall family became the best thing that ever happened to me. going to Herrin First Baptist church (which I’m still a member) so many growing up memories. We went different paths, but on occasion we met, we picked up right where we left off. Carolyn was smart, funny beautiful always smiling, everyone thought the world of her. She loved her family. What a wonderful legacy she left.My thoughts and prayers to all.
Lori, thanks so much for reaching out to ‘extended’ family. Losses are hard, but you all have so many good memories!! I still remember playing on Grandma Cripps front porch on holidays with all of you! Your mom was the sweetest!!!
Burke Family,
Our deepest condolences. I spent many an evening on the bleachers of Belleville East sitting with Carolyn Sue. Saturdays we shared at APSL. May God give you comfort and peace in the days ahead.
Jack, cannot say enough to express our condolences abut the passing of Sue. Our thoughts are with you at this time.
Jack, Scott, Lori, Kari,
Nancy and I were very sorry to hear about the passing of Carolyn. We remember her well from our days as neighbors on Cresthaven Drive. She was a very caring mother and always great with our two daughters.
Jack and family, I am so sorry to learn of Carolyn’s passing. She was a cheerleader for Herrin at the same time I was for Johnston City. We then went to S.I.U.C. living in Johnston Hall together. She was a very caring person and strong in her faith. May God be with each of you. Linda Hayes Williams.