Johnnie Dale “Smoky” Burgess

Johnnie Dale “Smoky” Burgess, 73, of Fortville passed after a valiant fight with a brief illness.He was born July 13, 1948, in Clinton to the late Willis Pershing & Mida Marie (McWethy) Burgess. Smoky retired from Olinger Distribution after 30 years and was a member of Teamsters Local #135. His most passionate occupation was that of an auctioneer. He was a past member of the Indiana Auctioneer Association. He loved being outdoors, whether gardening, fishing, or birdwatching. When Smoke wasn’t searching for the best deals or perusing antiques and oddities, he was doting on his beloved family. Smoke is survived by his wife of 49 years, Jane (Teagardin) Burgess; children, Zack (wife, Vivian) Burgess, Sarah (husband, Andy) Martin, Katie (husband, Kwame) Gardour, and Jake Burgess; grandchildren, Emily & Jared Martin, JC Romualdo, KJ & Kingston Gardour; sister, Connie Gammon; many nieces & nephews; a host of family. He was a father figure to many, friend to several, and an impact on everyone he encountered. A Celebration of Life will be conducted at 5:00 pm Tuesday, December 28, at Gateway Community Church, 125 E. Staat Street, Fortville, IN 46040. Visitation will be from 3:00-5:00 pm followed by services at the church.The family encourages guests to wear masks and practice social distancing. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the FoxGardin Community Fund. https://bit.ly/3EiC8yX

Johnnie Dale "Smoke" Burgess Celebration of Life Service from Gateway Church of Fortville on Vimeo.