Leatha Mae Burgess

Leatha Mae Burgess, a cherished matriarch and beacon of warmth, affection, and steadfast 

faith, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2025, at her home in Ritter, South Carolina, leaving 

behind a legacy of love and community service that will endure in the hearts of all who knew 

her.  Born on February 14, 1948, in the quaint area of Ritter, South Carolina to the late Willie R. 

Aiken and Mary Williams Alken.  Leatha was the loving heart and cornerstone of her family and 

community. 

She graduated from Colleton County Schools.  Upon graduation she worked various 

Jobs at Dayco, Veneer Plant of Walterboro, but was most passionate providing Home 

Healthcare Services throughout her community.

Leatha Mae Burgess and Apostle John Burgess were united in Holy Matrimony on August 9, 

1971, and from this beautiful union they raised four loving children John D. Burgess, Andre R. 

Burgess, Timothy A. Burgess, And Tashia M. Burgess.

Leatha was a woman of deep unwavering faith embracing her Christian beliefs; she 

passionately served with dedication in her position as The First Lady Elect of Miracle Temple.

She was preceded in death by her husband Apostle John H. Burgess; children, Timothy A.

Burgess, John D. Burgess, and Tashia M. Burgess; parents Mary Williams Aiken and Willie (Louise Colleton) Aiken; Siblings Ezkiel (Sallie Mae) Aiken Sr., and Juanita Williams.

Left to cherish her love and legacy, her son Andre R. (Candace) Burgess, of Walterboro SC.  

Eight sisters Eliza Barnes of Charleston, SC; Rosemary Williams, Albertha (Rounder) McDuffie, 

all of New Jersey; Sharlean (Gary) Simmons of Walterboro, SC; Linda Aiken of Santee, SC; 

Lavanda (Vincent) Gregory of Summerville SC; and Sarah Burgess Johnson of 

Ritter, SC.  Ten grandchildren, six great grandchildren, one God-daughter Lamia Lisbon of 

Moncks Corner, SC; and a host of relatives and friends.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Leatha Mae Burgess, please visit our floral store.