Stephen Ward Burke

Stephen was born in the Natchitoches Regional Medical Center 11/16/80 to David Lynn and Carolyn Frances (Lyn) Burke and passed away there 5/19/2024 after a sudden medical event at home while doing what he loved; taking care of his beloved dogs, Willie and Baxter. 

He graduated from Hamshire-Fannette High School, Hamshire, Texas in 2000 where he lettered in football. The Burke family had moved from Natchitoches to Texas in 1987 but remained as close as family to Stephen's God parents George (deceased) and Gail, and David, Mary, Catherine and Anna Batson for many years. Stephen moved back to Natchitoches with his family in 2017. The families spent many happy hours together vacationing, camping, fishing, and just barbequeing in the backyard. 

Stephen loved to play golf, his passion. He was an avid fisherman as well. He earned an Associates Degree in Computer Drafting Technology from Lamar Institute of Technology in Beaumont, Texas in 2007. he worked as a CAD Designer and Drafter and QC Engineer. 

He will be deeply missed by his older brother, David Paul Burke, also of Natchitoches as well as his Uncles and Aunts, Paul and Judy Burke, Vidor, Texas, James R. and Gwen Burke, Lafayette, Brodie C Nalle III, Shreveport and several nieces and nephews. He will be especially missed by his Godmother, “Aunt” Gail Batson.

He was predeceased by maternal grandparents Dr. Brodie C. Nalle, Jr. and Carolyn W. Nalle of Shreveport and paternal grandparents Paul T. Burke and Gene Burke of Bossier City.

Many thanks to the NRMC paramedics and the ER staff for their efforts and Kevin Sims who was there and comforted Stephen while waiting for medical assistance. Stephen was an organ donor and gave the gift of life to help others who are in need.