Arthur R. Burkett

Mr. Arthur Ray Burkett, Sr. was born on July 25, 1925 to the late Moses and Magnolia Burkett.  He is the fourth of fourteen children.  Arthur was affectionately known as “Mr. B.” or “Granddaddy Arthur”.  While his earthly body remained, Arthur ascended into heaven on February 21, 2020 in the comfort of his home.

Bro. Arthur is preceded in death by his parents, Moses and Magnolia Burkett; his wife Jeanette Burkett and Ruth Washington-Burkett; his children,  Arthur Jr., Margaret Dreher and Carrier M. Dunbar; brothers, David Sr., Moses, James, Paul, Archie and Wilbur Burkett and sisters, Martha Jett and Leila Burkett.

He grew up in Ballentine, SC on a family farm where he learned the value of hard work.  He was twelve years old before he was able to attend school but did not shy away from learning.  As a child, he loved books and was raised in the fellowship of Hopewell A.M.E. Church.  In 1948, he wedded the late Jeanette Eskew and six children was born to this union.  In 1966, he wedded the late Ruth Washington and five children was born to this union.

Those left to forever cherish his memory are his daughters, Mary Bouknight of Irmo, Rosetta Burton of Columbia, Mary Lee (Norman) Venyah of Lexington, March (Robert) Vanlue, of Lexington, Brenda Hickman of North Carolina; sons, Thomas (Sophia) Burkett of Newberry, William (Annette) Goodwin of Columbia, Mark (Jacquelyn) Goodwin of Columbia, Eddie (Roberta) Goodwin of Columbia, Charlie (Verna) Goodwin of Columbia; 31 grandchilden, 67 great grandchildren, 41 great-great grandchildren and 17 great-great-great grandchildren; one brother, Frank Burkett; three sisters, Ruby Thompson, Florence Kirkland and Betty L. Burkett; a son-in-law, Leroy Dreher all of Columbia; three brothers-in-law, five sisters-in-law; a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends and two very close friends, Bro. Horace Corley and Bro. Elton Pollock who all embrace his memory.

Arthur was a dedicated prayer warrior who was known to “send up a prayer.”  He was a longtime member of St. Paul A.M.E Church where he served in the choir, church school and the Senior Community Bible Study.  He was rewarded the title of “Father of the Church” and the “2020” Senior Citizen of the Year.  In his later years, he prided himself in assisting the seniors with various acts, though he was a senior himself.  He was known for his unselfish visits to others, his in-depth prayers and his love of family, fun and laughter.  God sees and rewards those who diligently work for him with little or no regard for earthly recognition.

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