James M. Burgess
Passed away February 20th, 2014.
Jim was born October 20, 1920 in Edwardsville, Alabama.
Inducted into the service in 1942, Mr. Burgess served in the European Theater of Operations with the 15th Air Force, 32nd Photo Reconnaissance Squadron, 5th Photo Group based in San Severo, Italy. He participated in the Northern Apennines, Po Valley, Central Europe and Rhineland campaigns. He served until 1946, was awarded the Silver Star.

Mr. Burgess moved to Orlando from Atlanta, Ga in 1957. He was a contractor & real estate entrepreneur until 1972 when he opened his first Ethan Allen store in St. Petersburg, FL. Burgess Carriage House continues to operate stores in St. Petersburg and Sarasota under the name Heritage House Home Interiors. He was active in Civitan and Rotary, and was a member in F.& A.M., Scottish Rite and A.A.O.N.M.S.
He is survived by his wife, Irene; his two sons and daughters-in-law, Scott and Lee (Silbert); and Phillip and Nancy (Cumming) and his five adoring grandchildren: Alexandra, Megan, Samantha, Max and Caroline.
Memorial service to be held in Maitland, FL on Saturday, March 1 at 10:30a.m. Church of the Good Shepherd, 331 Lake Avenue, 32751.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Chapel Preservation Fund at Church of the Good Shepherd.
Arrangements are entrusted to DeGusipe Funeral Home & Crematory, 9001 N. Orlando Avenue, Maitland, Florida 32751. (407) 695-CARE(2273).