Alisha Yocum
Steve Burdette’s journey from his childhood on a farm in Browningsville, Maryland, to becoming a beloved figure in the Blue Ridge Summit community, is one marked by a deep love for both art and people.
Growing up surrounded by farmland, Burdette’s passion for rural scenes and landscapes developed early on. His artistic talents blossomed at the age of 13, and by 14, he was already the youngest student in a private oil art class. This early start laid the foundation for a lifelong love of art.
In 2007, Burdette opened an Art Gallery at Tracey’s Corner, offering various items and art classes that quickly gained popularity. The following year, he and his family made the move to Blue Ridge Summit. Though they didn’t have family in the area, the warm embrace of the community made it feel like home, with friends becoming like family.
But Burdette’s contributions extended far beyond the art world. Recently appointed as Chaplain for the Blue Ridge Fire Company, Burdette had already been ministering to many first responders in the area. He had accompanied enforcement agencies on domestic or suicide calls before his health issues intervened.
Burdette even held church services at his gallery. His wife, Kathy, says “Many people came looking for comfort, guidance, or to learn of God’s Word. He worked with gang members, homeless individuals, drug addicts, suicidal persons… the list could go on. He felt nobody was beyond God’s Grace & Love.”
On January 27, 2024, Steve Burdette passed away peacefully in his home, leaving behind a legacy of service, compassion, and artistic excellence—a testament to a life dedicated to enriching the lives of others through both his art and his unwavering commitment to community.
An art show will be held on Saturday June 1 at the Blue Ridge Summit Fire Hall with all profits going to his funeral expenses.
Steve Burdette was a local artist and chaplain, who left behind a legacy of service and commitment to the Blue Ridge Summit Community.
