News Summary
The Natchez community mourns the loss of Stanley “Stan” Melton Burkley, a family man and passionate sports enthusiast. Stan, known for his love of tennis and Mississippi State athletics, passed away peacefully surrounded by family. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy of love, including his wife, children, grandchildren, and extended family. A funeral service will celebrate his life and contributions to the community.
Natchez, Mississippi – The community is coming together to mourn the passing of Stanley “Stan” Melton Burkley, a cherished family man and sports enthusiast, who passed away on July 15, 2025. Stan lost his long battle with cancer, dying peacefully at home while surrounded by his loved ones.
Born on August 18, 1950, to Stanley Engbarth Burkley and Ruth Marie Miller, Stan was a lifelong resident of Natchez. He was dedicated to both his family and his interests throughout his life, leaving a legacy of love and joy among those who knew him.
Stan received his education from several institutions, including Natchez High School, Sewanee Military Academy in Tennessee, Mississippi State University in Starkville, and Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas. His professional career included significant work in the insurance and timber industries, contributing to the local economy and community.
In addition to his professional life, Stan was a passionate tennis player and an avid hunter, known for creating cherished memories on the tennis courts of Duncan Park and coaching others keen to learn the sport. His love for Mississippi State athletics was also a significant part of his identity, further defining his commitment to his community.
Stan Burkley is preceded in death by his parents and stepson Paul Jared Frederick. He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Judy Gamberi Burkley, who played a crucial role in his life. He also leaves behind a son, Brian Miller Burkley (with wife Natalie) along with two granddaughters, Marlee and Livy Burkley from Signal Mountain, Tennessee, and a daughter, Hannah Burkley Provance (with husband Ryan), who has two children, Wade and Clara Provance from Folsom, Louisiana.
In addition to his immediate family, Stan’s legacy continues through his stepdaughters Julia Frederick Novarini (with husband Andrew) and Joanna Frederick DeRosia (with husband Chris), both of whom have children that Stan adored. His family tree stretches further with grandchildren brought into this world by his stepdaughters, including Julia’s daughter Capri Novarini from Houston, Texas, and Joanna’s daughters Ruby June and Lucia DeRosia from Denver, Colorado. Besides his immediate descendants, Stan is also survived by his twin brother Lou Burkley (with wife Teressa) and four sisters, Mattie Burkley, Camille Wilson (with husband Hacker), Simone Chatelain (with husband Mike), and Claire Burkley, along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Stan’s family highlights his immense love for them, especially recalling the precious moments spent with his grandchildren, which he treasured deeply. This bond was at the core of his life and the source of much happiness.
A funeral service will be held to honor Stan’s memory on July 22, 2025, at The Basilica of Saint Mary beginning at 11:00 AM. Visitation will precede the service, starting at 10:00 AM. Following the service, Stan will be laid to rest at The Natchez City Cemetery, with a repast taking place afterwards at the home of Joe and Andree Gamberi.
In lieu of flowers, his family requests that memorials be made to the Natchez Community Tennis Association or a charity of one’s choosing, honoring the passions that defined Stan’s life. The family would like to extend their gratitude to Deaconess HomeCare and Compassus Hospice for the compassionate care afforded to Stan during his final days.
Stan’s resilience in life has been encapsulated by a special note from 2 Timothy 4:7-8, emphasizing his steadfastness and determination. His impact on the community will be long remembered as they celebrate his life and legacy.
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Additional Resources
- Laird Funeral Home: Stanley Melton Burkley
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Laird Funeral Home: Catherine Virginia “Jinny” Wagner Patterson
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Laird Funeral Home: Obituary #1524427
- Google News: Obituary
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.
