Rona Burke

In the autumn of 1948, as America stood at the edge of transformation, a baby boy named
Rona Burke entered the world in Macon, Georgia. It was a time when Black families across
the South were rising with resilience—when the Great Migration was reshaping
communities, when voices of justice were beginning to echo, and when hope was a
revolutionary act. Into this pivotal moment, Rona was born, carrying a strength and
determination that would shape the 77 years he spent on this earth.

As a child, he moved to Michigan, growing up during the Civil Rights Movement, witnessing
marches, dreaming through Motown melodies, and watching a nation evolve from
segregation to the election of its first Black President. He lived through eras that reshaped
the world—wars, triumphs, pandemics, the digital age, and cultural revolutions—and
through every decade, Rona remained grounded, wise, and full of heart.

Known lovingly as Ron or Tamir, he greeted life with a signature optimism. If you asked him
how he was doing, he would smile and reply, “Fantastic.” Even during challenging seasons,
he meant it. Gratitude was his posture. Generosity was his nature. He was the man who
asked if you needed anything and meant it. He would give you the shirt off his back.

Rona was the devoted father of Lorin Burke (Joysun Collins), Asura Burke, and Nicole
Washington (deceased). He was the cherished brother of Leon Burke Jr., Willa Joann Smith
(Orvin Smith), and Mitchell Shamsudin (Aunt Crystal Shamsudin), and the loving brother of
Phyllis Davis (deceased), Rahman Shamsudin (deceased), and Michael Burke (deceased).
He was preceded in death by both his parents, Phyllis Burke and Leon Burke Sr., who
shaped his foundation of faith, dignity, and compassion.

He leaves behind a proud and beautiful lineage of grandchildren:
Bernard Jr., Trey, Troy, Ariana, Rodney Jr., Zane, Raine, Jaysun, Justin, Jayden, Journi, and
Jordyn, as well as a growing family of great-grandchildren who will continue carrying his
light.

Rona grew up in the church and was a dedicated member of Hartford Memorial Baptist
Church. His spiritual grounding was deepened by the teachings of the Honorable Elijah
Muhammad, which shaped his discipline, clarity, and commitment to personal growth.

He was a lifelong learner who loved books, poetry, and deep conversations. He quoted
philosophers like Ralph Waldo Emerson, watched Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune with his
daughters, and celebrated their knowledge with his joyful, booming “Lorin!!” whenever she
got an answer right. He called Asura sweetheart, baby, honey, and constantly affirmed how
grateful he was for their love, care, and companionship.

A man of unmistakable style, Rona wore three-piece suits, crisp hats, polished shoes, and
took pride in keeping his Cadillac pristine. He retired from General Motors, contributing to
Detroit’s automotive legacy, while also building businesses of his own, including Burke
Roofing Company, SIE T-Shirt Company, and a word processing company.
Entrepreneurship was more than work—it was legacy.

He adored singing, dancing, laughing, and loving on his children and grandchildren. His
longtime friend Lois held a very special place in his heart, offering companionship and
warmth throughout his life.

Rona’s medical challenges—multiple amputations, three heart attacks within 18 months,
and years of dialysis, including performing his own treatments at home—never dimmed his
spirit. His strength was astonishing. His perseverance, unmatched. He lived his
philosophy: rise, endure, keep going.

Through 42 years of sobriety, he became a mentor to many in AA, sponsoring others and
offering hope where it was needed most. His recovery journey wasn’t just personal—it
became a ministry, transforming lives.

He taught his daughters that their roots run deep, that their lineage is powerful, and that
“we come from greatness.” In times of conflict, he reminded them gently:

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