Vance Burkey

Vance Burkey, beloved father, grandfather, brother, husband, child of God and dear friend, died one day shy of his 90th birthday on December 11, 2024. Vance was known for his wisdom, his honesty, optimism, laughter, and inimitable sense of humor, impeccable style, and love for his family. He had an unlimited capacity for love and friendship; his benevolence and charm led many people to describe Vance as one of a kind.

Born in Knoxville, Tennessee to R.D. and Margaret Louise (nee Vance) Burkey in 1934. Vance was the older brother of his beloved sister Peggy Burkey Hagler, with whom he was raised in a loving home.

He attended the University of Tennessee. From there he joined the United States Air Force where he worked as part of the navigation team on the B-57 Canberra. He loved cruising Fort Loudon Lake where he lived for many years and where he taught his girls to ski. He enjoyed traveling; trips both long and short, fall colors in our beautiful Smoky Mountains, and long idyllic days walking on the beach. He was a lover of jazz music; particularly Dave Brubeck and Ella Fitzgerald, with whom he once shared a piano bench in a New Orleans jazz club while she was performing.

Vance was the founder and president-emeritus of Realty Executives. He was an icon in the real estate industry, and a revered leader in East Tennessee. He dedicated his life to transforming the real estate industry through strong leadership, mentorship and an unwavering commitment to the success of his agents. His journey in real estate began in a rapidly evolving era, where his entrepreneurial spirit and foresight set him apart. Under his leadership, Realty Executive Group became a cornerstone of the real estate community, renowned for its culture of professionalism and integrity. In 1979 REA became the number one firm in East Tennessee, under his leadership, and has since held that position.

Vance was a lifelong member of First Presbyterian Church, where he served as both a deacon and an elder and fostered many enduring friendships.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Martha Ogle Burkey; his three children, Leigh Burkey (Jeff Couchman), Cynthia Harbison (Jason) and Karin Childress (Brian); sister, Peggy Hagler; his treasured grandchildren, Hannah, Evan, Sydney, Maddie, Eli, and Zane; and his stepson, Winston Hayes.

Funeral services will be held on December 17, 2024 at 10 AM at First Presbyterian Church, followed by a reception for friends and family. A private burial will follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to one of the following organizations:

Habitat for Humanity, https://www.habitat.org.

American Cancer Society, https://www.cancer.org/about-us/local/tennessee.html

First Presbyterian Church, https://www.fpcknox.org/