Obituary was lovingly written by his family

Celebrating Junior's Life: Junior Lee Burks, affectionately known as "Pops," was born on February 9, 1945, on the Mississippi Choctaw Nation Native American Reservation in Conehatta, Mississippi. He was the son of Annie May Evans and Jessie Edwards, who fled during the Great Migration from Mississippi to Chicago where Junior was raised along with his siblings, Loretha Young and Eddie "Dee" Edwards (both of whom preceded him in eternal life). Junior grew up on the North Side of Chicago in a fairly large family. He often shared stories of playing outside all day and eating fruit from neighborhood trees. He loved recounting countless childhood experiences and how they shaped the man he became. As an adult, Junior enjoyed talking on the phone with his cousins and friends, sharing stories, praying together, and encouraging one another. His favorite story was about his loving mother and how deeply she cared for him and his siblings.

In 1985, Junior married his true love, Rhonda Faye Madison, and together they raised four children: Dacia (Teon, who preceded him in eternal life), George (who preceded him in eternal life), Ishmael, and Imani (Shammrie). His legacy continues through his grandchildren—Teona, Teon II, Zia, Adam (who preceded him in eternal life), Mari, Olivia, and Oliver—and his great grandchildren, DaMarco and Daevion.

Although Junior knew of the Lord from a young age, in 1995 he committed his life fully to Christ and began his true faith walk. He spent the last 31 years repenting of his sins and striving to be the man God created and called him to be. Sometimes that meant singing his favorite quartet song, "Walk Around," or opening church services with powerful prayer. Other times, it meant giving wise counsel to his children and grandchildren, often reminding them that "Jesus is your only true friend." His favorite song was "Your Destiny" by Kevin LeVar, which he played every morning at the kitchen table as he read his Bible and cried. We will miss him dearly, but we know he is headed to the place he always longed to be—Heaven.

From his wife of 41 years: No matter what, he always said, "I got you." He made sure everyone was okay, and his presence brought comfort and security to those around him. He was a man worth knowing—strong, loving, and protective. He fought for his family and never left us without. Scott (what I call him) was committed to his faith and always made sure he went to church, even though the streets knew him. He never allowed anyone to harm his family.

From his family: Pops loved The Lord and looked forward to Heaven. He would want you to do the same. If you do not know The Lord, accept Jesus in your heart, believe that He is Lord, turn from your sin and rejoice that your name is written in Heaven. Jesus loves you!

What we hold dear: Junior's life was a testament to faith, love, and perseverance. His legacy lives on in the hearts of his family and all who knew him. Though our hearts ache, we rejoice knowing he finished his race January 8, 2026, and received his eternal reward. Until we meet again, Pops—walk around Heaven all day.

All Services were held privately for the family. Cremation arrangements are under the personal care and direction of the DUNN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME with CREMATORY, 1801 S. Douglas Road, Oswego, IL 60543.

For information, 630-554-3888 or visit his memorial page at www.dunnfamilyfuneralhome.com