Linwood Cornell Burcher

L. Cornell Burcher passed away April 8, 2021 at the age of 91. Cornell was born, raised, and spent much of his life in Poquoson, Virginia. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Linwood Burcher and a sister, Jean B. Forrest. Cornell is survived by a nephew, Nathan Forrest; his niece, Mary Lynn Curran; several cousins; and his “adopted” family, Dan, Donna, Alex, Ashley, Abbey, Sam, Teagan, and Bennett Vicroy. He was a graduate of the University of Virginia in 1957 where he majored in Psychology. Mr. Burcher spent two years in the Army during the Korean War. He then began a 32-year career at NASA’s Langley Research Center in various administrative roles. He was very civic-minded, having served twelve years on the Poquoson Planning Commission; followed by two terms as Mayor of Poquoson, 1988-1996. He also served as Chairman of the Advisory Board for the Poquoson branch of Central Fidelity Bank. Once retired, Mr. Burcher thoroughly enjoyed volunteering at Peninsula Reads and both Riverside and Hampton Sentara Hospitals. Cornell was an avid runner, enjoyed water skiing with his friends at his cabin on the Chickahominy River, and loved to travel. He had a passion for architecture, classical music, and opera. He served as the organist for Poquoson Tabernacle United Methodist Church for several years. He later became an active member of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of the Peninsula. A few of his many philanthropic interests included; Achievable Dream Academy, WHRO, as well as University of Virginia and Christopher Newport University where he established scholarship funds stemming from his appreciation of and value for education. He will be remembered as a mentor, colleague, godfather, and loyal friend. A visitation will be held at Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home on Wednesday, April 14 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. A Celebration of Life Service will begin at 2:00 PM with a burial to follow at Parklawn Memorial Park.