Emmett "Spike"

Burke, Jr.

Emmett M. Burke, Jr (Spike) of Richmond, VA passed suddenly on February 5, 2026. He was the beloved son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Emmett and Irene Glassgow Burke Sr. of Richmond's Jackson Ward neighborhood. He was also preceded in death by his brother Ronald (Stoney) Burke.

Following the displacement of the Jackson Ward neighborhood, the family moved to Church Hill.

A proud graduate of Armstrong High School, he was widely regarded as an exceptional athlete, earning respect for both his talent and discipline. After graduation, he attended Virginia State College (University) before being drafted into the United States Army. He rose to the rank of Sergeant and served his country honorably. Following his honorable discharge, he built a successful career as the Operations Manager for Thalhimers Department Store chain and Carter Hawley Hale retailer. He also founded Burke's Painting, which he led until his passing.

Emmett will be remembered for his leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, volunteerism and unwavering dedication to both his family and community.

He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Cheryl Lewis Burke, sons, Emmett L. Burke (Ana) and Edmund G. Burke, three grandchildren, sister-in-law, Denise R. Lewis, and a host of relatives and friends.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026, 11 am at the Ebenezer Baptist Church , 216 W. Leigh Street, Richmond, Virginia, 23220.

Donations can be made at https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/donate-to-educate-coordinate-and-provide-aid-in-support-of-eradicating-chronic-miseducation-and-generational-poverty-on-a-local-and-global-level-by-inspiring-and-motivating-children-teenagers-and-adults-to-become-educational-and-business-leaders-in-their-community