Courtland- Roland A. Burgess, 91, of Courtland, Va. passed away July 8, 2015. Born in Southampton County, Va. on Jan 5, 1924, he was the son of the late Matt Burgess and Lilly J. Burgess and was a member of Vincent's Grove Methodist Church. He was predeceased by a sister, Virginia Covington and brothers Reginald Burgess and Elmo Burgess.

Mr. Burgess worked with Hunter Scott Construction Company before joining Union Camp Corporation and retired with International Paper as Supervisor of the Road Maintenance and Forestry Management Division. He was a veteran of World War II and the Korean War, having served in both the Merchant Marines and the U.S. Army. He served with the Army Combat Engineers and the 17th Airborne Engineers and served on several different ships, serving as Chief Steward on one. He enjoyed woodworking throughout his retirement. He loved his family and was the primary care giver for his wife for many years. He was a member of the Bronco Rod and Gun Club; and was a former Scout Master of Troop 211. He was awarded a U.S. Patent for a Fertilizer Distributor while employed with Union Camp.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Shirley S. Burgess, one brother, his children, 7 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. Survivors include J. M. Burgess, Neil Burgess (Susan), Dennis Burgess (Robin), Matt Burgess, Sheila Gillenwater, Greg (Kim), Leah Burgess, Matthew (Jessie), Anneliese (Ryan), Haley and Marissa Gillenwater, Stuart Breeden (Kayla), Lydia and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

A funeral will be held Saturday, July 11th at 11:00 am at Wright Funeral Home, Franklin with Rev. Howard Vinson, Jr. officiating. Burial with Military Honors will follow at Riverside Cemetery, Courtland. The family will receive friends Friday from 6 to 8 PM at the funeral home. Flowers are appreciated or memorial donations may be made to the Courtland, VA Fire Department. www.wrightfuneralhome.org