John Douglas Burge, age 80, of Fredericksburg, Virginia, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born and raised on a tobacco farm in Patrick County, Virginia, he was the son of the late Charlie and Bessie Lawson Burge. A proud graduate of Stuart High School, he later earned degrees from Bluefield College—where he also played basketball- and Virginia Polytechnic Institute—now known as Virginia Tech.
An outdoorsman at heart, Johnny found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved primitive camping, hunting, canoeing, and fishing—especially with his grandchildren. He built a Daniel Boone-style log cabin in the woods behind his home using logs from his own land, and spent countless hours crafting slingshots and bows for his grandkids, sharing stories, and exploring Civil War battlefields. A passionate history buff and avid reader with a remarkable memory, he could tell a story like no other and had the gift of gab that made strangers feel like old friends.
He was known for his love of naps, and cheering for his favorite sports teams, including any team of his grandkids’, the Washington Redskins and the Hokies. Johnny loved traveling, especially to our “beach house” which was Mary’s grandmother’s house on her farm in the foothills of NC. He had a soft spot for gas station hotdogs, junk food, and all animals—especially cats and his beloved grand-dogs.
Professionally, Johnny built a distinguished career that spanned over 60 years, working as a right-of-way agent for the highway department, a real estate appraiser for Fairfax County, and as the co-founder of Burge Appraisers, Inc. His tireless work ethic and pursuit of excellence made a lasting impression on everyone he worked with and left a meaningful legacy in the community he served.
Faith was a cornerstone of Johnny’s life. He was a faithful member of Hope Presbyterian Church, always willing to lend a hand wherever needed. He especially enjoyed times of Bible Study and community service with his group of friends lovingly referred to as the “Wise Guys.”
He is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Mary Epperson Burge; his beloved daughters, Ginni Burge, Erica Tanner (Wade), Amanda Meade (Tom); and his ten beloved grandchildren: Averianna, Tucker, and Aidareece Phillips, Jonah, Lydia, Jude and Eden Tanner, Hannah, Thomas and Cora Meade. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Regina Burge, nephews Jerry and Randy Burge, nieces Sharon McGraw and Teresa Dodson and many friends and extended family who cherished his kind heart and storytelling spirit.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Bessie Burge; his brother Paul Burge (Margaret); and his brother, Lloyd Burge.
John will be remembered for his love and devotion to his family, his sharp wit, endless curiosity, and unwavering kindness. His stories, laughter, and presence will be missed beyond measure but carried forward in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Visitation will be held on Friday, June 13, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Johnson Funeral Home, located at 31440 Constitution Hwy, Locust Grove, VA 22508.
The funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 14, 2025 at Hope Presbyterian Church, 11121, Leavells Rd, Fredericksburg, VA 22407. A reception will follow the service.
A second funeral service and interment will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, June 16, 2025 at Crossroad Community Church on Aaron’s Corner Church Road in North Carolina. Memorial donations may be made to Samaritan’s Purse at www.samaritanspurse.org or to Hope Presbyterian Church, 11121, Leavells Rd, Fredericksburg, VA 22407.
