News Summary
Stanley ‘Stan’ Melton Burkley, a beloved figure in Natchez, Mississippi, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. Known for his passion for tennis and dedication to family, Stan’s life touched many in the community. He coached young tennis enthusiasts, enjoyed hunting, and was a devoted supporter of Mississippi State University. A funeral service is scheduled to honor his legacy, with contributions directed to local charities in his memory. Stan’s spirit and contributions to the community will be fondly remembered by all.
Natchez, Mississippi – Stanley “Stan” Melton Burkley, a lifelong resident of Natchez and an avid tennis player, passed away on July 15, 2025, after a prolonged battle with cancer. He died peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family.
Stan was born on August 18, 1950, to Stanley Engbarth Burkley and Ruth Marie Miller. His formative years were spent in Natchez, where he attended Natchez High School and later Sewanne Military Academy in Sewanne, Tennessee. He further pursued higher education at Mississippi State University in Starkville, Mississippi, as well as Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas. Throughout his career, he worked in the insurance and timber industries.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Stan was notably passionate about tennis and spent numerous hours playing at Duncan Park. He also dedicated time to coaching aspiring players in the sport, sharing his love for tennis with the community. In addition, Stan enjoyed hunting and was a devoted supporter of Mississippi State University, making lifelong memories both on and off the court.
Stan is preceded in death by his parents and stepson, Paul Jared Frederick. He is survived by his beloved wife of 28 years, Judy Gamberi Burkley, along with his children and stepchildren. His son, Brian Miller Burkley, is married to Natalie and has two daughters, Marlee and Livy, residing in Signal Mountain, TN. His daughter, Hannah Burkley Provance, is married to Ryan and has two children, Wade and Clara, living in Folsom, LA. Stan’s stepdaughters are Julia Frederick Novarini, who is married to Andrew and has a daughter, Capri, living in Houston, TX, and Joanna Frederick DeRosia, married to Chris, with daughters Ruby June and Lucia residing in Denver, CO.
Stan is also survived by a close-knit family that includes his twin brother, Lou Burkley, married to Teressa, sister Mattie Burkley, sister Camille Wilson married to Hacker, sister Simone Chatelain married to Mike, and sister Claire Burkley. He leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly.
Known for his boundless love for his family, Stan cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren and was a devoted and generous man. His contributions to the local community, particularly in developing young tennis players, will be remembered fondly.
A funeral service to honor Stan’s life is scheduled for July 22, 2025, at The Basilica of Saint Mary in Natchez, MS, beginning at 11:00 AM. Visitation for friends and family will be held from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on the same day. Following the service, a burial will take place at The Natchez City Cemetery, followed by a repast at the home of Joe and Andree Gamberi.
The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Natchez Community Tennis Association or a charity of choice. They have expressed heartfelt gratitude for the exceptional care provided by Deaconess HomeCare and Compassus Hospice during Stan’s final days. Online condolences can be sent through lairdfh.com.
In reflection of his life and values, the family has chosen to quote 2 Timothy 4:7-8: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith.”
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Additional Resources
- Natchez Democrat: Stanley “Stan” Melton Burkley
- Google Search: Stanley Melton Burkley
- Laird Funeral Home: Stanley Melton “Stan” Burkley
- Wikipedia: Tennis
- Google News: Natchez
Author: STAFF HERE STARKVILLE WRITER
The STARKVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREstarkville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Starkville, Oktibbeha County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cotton District Arts Festival, Bulldog Bash, and Mississippi State University homecoming celebrations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Starkville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Mississippi State University Extension Service, plus leading businesses in education and agriculture that power the local economy such as Mississippi State University and Starkville Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
