MERVIN “MERK” McBURSE
Mervin McBurse, affectionately known as “Merk” was born on December 20, 1930 in Hawkinsville, GA to the late Everett and Mariah Brantley McBurse. She was the 8th child of eleven children.
Mervin moved from Hawkinsville, GA in her early twenties to Philadelphia, PA and then moved on to Newark, NJ where she resided for 30 years.
Mervin joined First Timothy Baptist; under the leadership the late Rev. James Wade. She continued her journey at Solid Rock Missionary Baptist Church under the pastorate of Rev. Ernest Jackson where she was a faithful member of the Choir, Usher Board and Pastor’s Aide.
In 1986 she relocated to Oviedo, FL. She was employed at the University of Central Florida retiring in 1996.
Upon moving to Florida, she became a member of the Rock Hill Missionary Baptist Church located in Jamestown, FL. She served in many capacities throughout the years. She has served in the Choir, Usher Board, Pastor’s Aide, and the Mother’s Board. She served faithfully under the pastorate of the late Rev. Billy Jackson. She continued her Christian journey under Pastor Willie Nixon’s leadership and (Interim Pastor McKennon Fernander).
Merk aka Turtle was known for her kind spirit and smile and often considered as the “quiet one” with very much observation and sharp discernment of character. Her nieces and nephews referred to her as the auntie that’s easy going… never swift to anger. She was also known for her love of cooking and baking. In her community she was called the “Neighborhood Grandma.” She was well known for her addictive brownies and cup cakes.
All of the earthly things are behind her now, and she is resting in the presence of the Lord. On Monday, August 29, 2022, with her loving children by her side, she heard God’s call summoning her to her heavenly home.
Mervin is predeceased by her sisters: Gladys Barnes, Inez Maultsby, Mildred Stewart, Deotha Parker Jackson, Verdell Bryant, and Dorothy Dennis; brothers: Everett (Coot) McBurse Sr., Horace McBurse Sr., and William McBurse.
Until they meet again, she leaves sons: Michael McBurse (Oviedo, FL), Terrence McBurse Sr. (Orlando, FL); daughters: Sharon Mills (Stevie) Fort Lauderdale, FL, Allison McBurse Boston (Jimmy, Jr.) Oviedo, FL; 14 grandkids, 12 great grandkids; sister: Jean Singletary (Syracuse, NY) and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
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