Obituary of Robert Lee Bursby

Robert Lee Bursby, 68, of Lamar, MO passed away on Monday March 25, 2024. He was born in Kansas City, MO to Henry and Mary (Deeds) Bursby. He grew up and went to school in Golden City, MO. As an adult he lived in Redwood, TX and then Chilhowee, MO for about 20 years before moving back to Lamar, MO. He worked in the construction industry, building houses with his father, and metal churches and barns with Gordon Stegner. He also worked in sanitation in Dallas, TX, where he was a heavy equipment operator. While in Texas, he was in a tragic accident involving a chlorine leak that affected his lungs for the rest of his life. He moved several bodies out of the contaminated area before it collapsed and was one of four survivors out of seven men. He married Rachelle York on September 1, 2013. The couple renewed their vows in 2023 at Newport Baptist Church where they attended. Robert liked putting together puzzles, mostly of antique cars and tractors, and framing them to give to his family and friends. He loved antique tractors and cars but was most noted for his skill and enjoyment of grilling. He was a member of the Tractor club in Chilhowee where he cooked on a grill he built himself. He also enjoyed family get togethers and was a great storyteller. Robert is survived by his wife Rachelle of the home and siblings; Sam (Lala) Bursby of El Dorado Springs, MO, Mary Perdue of Hume, MO, Deborah (Dave) Keirsey of Nevada, MO, Betty (David) McGuire of Butler, MO, Jess (Sabrina) Pattison of Hume, MO, Calvin (Misun) Pattison of Hume, MO, Alfred Pattison of AZ, and Justin Pattison of Clinton, MO. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and other family members and close friends. He is preceded in death by his parents and siblings Linda Morris, Mark Pattison, and Martha Pattison. If you would like to make a memorial contribution in lieu of flowers, the family suggests Newport Baptist Church in care of the funeral home. A graveside service at Lockwood Cemetery will be held on Tuesday April 2, 2024 at 11:00 am.