HOUSTON – Hundreds gathered at St. John the Divine Episcopal Church in River Oaks on Thursday to celebrate the lives of four Burgess family members who died in the devastating Hill Country floods earlier this month.
John Burgess, 39, a funeral director, and Julia Burgess, 39, an educator, were remembered alongside their sons — 5-year-old Jack, known for his kindness and boundless energy, and 21-month-old James, remembered for his ever-present smile. The family was camping near the Guadalupe River during the July 4 holiday when tragedy struck.
“I could tell that John and Julia were perfect for each other. I got to see it immediately and constantly that there was so much joy in their relationship,” one speaker said during the memorial service.
Green ribbons adorned the River Oaks neighborhood as a symbol of support for flood victims. The family’s surviving daughter, 8-year-old Jenna Burgess, who was at a different location in the Hill Country during the incident, has received an outpouring of community support.
Country singer Pat Green, a relative of the Burgess family, recently hosted a benefit concert that raised more than $1 million for Jenna and other flood victims. The virtual concert featured numerous country music stars, demonstrating widespread support for those affected by the tragedy.
During the funeral service, speakers emphasized the lasting impact of the Burgess family. “John was a man of joy. Julia was a woman of passion and commitment,” the pastor said, highlighting the couple’s enduring legacy.
A trust fund has been established for 8-year-old Jenna Burgess. Donations can be made to the Jenna Lacy Burgess Trust at Amegy Bank.
