James David Burke Sr.

James was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army Air Cavalry, a retired pastor of Cedar Grove Community Church, and worked at Worthington Steel Industries and with the Kentucky Education Cabinet as a grant writer for many years. James had a lifelong passion for hot rods, spending countless hours collecting and working on many, which was a love he zealously shared with his family and friends as a dedicated member of the National Street Rod Association.

Preceded in death by his parents, Chris and Ida Burke, he is survived by his wife and love of his life, Pamela Burke; their children, David Burke (Ann) and Amanda Sowards (Mike). Also left to cherish his memory are his five grandchildren: Daylen Hoots (Ryan), Lyndsey Silker (Brendan), Zachery Sowards (Zoë), Sydney Sleper, and Benjamin Sleper; and five great-grandchildren: Brinley, Jolene, Adeline, Sadie, and Heyven; his brother, Richard Burke (Janna) and sister, Monica Blevens (Donnie).

James will always be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. The family will honor his memory by continuing the cherished tradition of multiple generations, saying “I love you first and you’re a fuddleduddy” anytime they want to express their unconditional love, affection, and adoration for each other.

We know you drove your hot rod to heaven in record time, Gramps. We miss you already and we love you first and you’re a fuddleduddy.

In lieu of flowers the family has asked for donations to the Wounded Warrior Project to be made in James' name.

Visitation will take place at Arch L. Heady and Son Funeral Home, 3601 Taylor Blvd, Louisville, Kentucky on August 25, 2024 from 2:00pm to 8:00pm. The funeral service will take place Monday, August 26, 2024 at 11:00a.m. Visitation from 9:00a.m. until time of the funeral. Burial will take place Tuesday, August 27, 2024 at 9:30am at Kentucky Veterans Cemetery Central, Radcliff Kentucky