John Burress

John D. Burress Beloved Husband, Father, Friend On Friday, September 12, 2014 John D. Burress, went peacefully into the arms of Jesus at his mountain home in Cruso, North Carolina, after a brief illness. By his side was the love of his life, Patricia Long Burress with whom he had shared the past 29 years. A native of Cruso, North Carolina he was the son of the late Fanning and Allie O'Neil Burress. He is preceded by his parents and father-in-law, Edwin Long, and an infant brother, Charles Burress. John was a soft spoken, gentle "Giant" of a man. He was known for his integrity and wisdom. He taught his children the value of hard work, honesty, love, hunting, fishing, seng digging, and to have a deep love and respect for all things in nature. He had a great passion for the woods and was considered a "True Woodsman". He had the sweetest smile, which always said "Hello Friend". He was truly a "Man's Man", and will be missed by all those who knew him. He was a dedicated former employee of International Paper, having retired in 2000, after 41 years of service. Surviving are his loving wife and best friend, Pat Long Burress of Canton; his brother and sister-in-law, Carroll and Eva Mae Burress and his mother-in-law Betty Long all from Cruso. John had a large blended family and counted them as his children. Surviving are: Tim and (Sherry) Burress, Lena and (Doug) Reppert, Mitchell and (Melanie) Burress all from Cruso. Chad and (Janet) McCracken of Lake Forrest, Illinois and Sean McCracken of San Antonio Texas. His grandchildren, Kaytie Reppert, Sarah Burress, Rachel Burress, Colter Buress, Samuel Reppert, Daniel Burress, Travis and (Gina) Sutton, Sabe and (Amanda) Sutton, Cody Sutton, Texie McCracken, Harper McCracken, Dagny McCracken and Stoney McCracken. Four great- grandchildren, Piper, Nolan, Shelby, and Pharris Sutton. Also surviving are many extended family members and numerous friends. Keeping true to his humble nature, and at John's request there will be no visitation or service. His ashes will be privately laid to rest on his beloved mountain. John has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to East Fork Baptist Church, 13175 Cruso Rd, Canton NC 28716, of which he was a dedicated member.