Earl Thomas Burcham, age 101.4, of Waynesboro, VA joined his heavenly father on April 26, 2022. Born in Middletown, VA on January 13,1921 to Byrden D. and Laura H. Burcham, he outlived all of his eight brothers and sisters. He was preceded in death by Phyllis, his wife of 75 years. His memory will be cherished by his daughters, Donna B. Fowlkes (Tom) and Denise B. England (Steve) as well as his granddaughters Jenni S. Williams (Hudson), Sarah E. McLaughlin (Kevin), and Kate R. England. He was especially proud of his great granddaughters, Ella and Grace McLaughlin. He will also be remembered by his step grandchildren, Merrill F. Hoopengardner (Andy) and John T. Fowlkes (Alena) and step great grandchildren, Ella and Claire Hoopengardner and Marvin Fowlkes.

At age 14, Earl's family moved to the high plains of Montana for his father to work on the Fort Peck Dam. There, Earl managed a 1000+ acre ranch.

After returning to VA, he served in the Civilian Conservation Corps working as a mechanic and as an arborist in Arlington National Cemetery. He also served in the US Army during WWII where he was stationed in the Aleutian Islands on Attu.

Having a lifelong passion for learning, he enjoyed careers as a machinist, tool designer, manufacturing engineer, Certified Master Watchmaker, engraver, watchmaking instructor, jewelry store owner and as a field representative for Woodmen of the World.

In addition to being a colorful storyteller, he was an accomplished harmonica player, square dancer and caller, card player, and genealogist. He also enjoyed family reunions, crossword, sudoku and jigsaw puzzles as well as celebrating his own birthday!

Earl was a deacon, Sunday school teacher and mission worker, and a member of First Baptist Church in Waynesboro.  He was also a Mason and a lifetime member of the Gideons International.

A private celebration of life will be held in the future.