Affectionately known as Zack, Brother Zack, ZB, and Uncle Zack, he was a devoted father to two sons, Zachary III (Connie) and Mark (Allison), from his union with Clara Blackman. A proud graduate of Bradley County High School, Class of 1962, Zachary continued his education at AM&N College (UAPB) and honorably served his country in the US Army. Accepting Christ early as a youth, Zachary was a lifelong member of the Bethel AME Church in Warren, AR, where he served as an usher for many years and other capacities in the church for several years.
Zachary's professional journey began in the Warren Public Schools under the mentorship of Thomas C. Brunson, before transitioning to a distinguished career at Potlatch Corporation in Safety. His expertise and leadership led to his elevation to Divisional Safety Manager, a role he served with distinction for numerous years, later continuing as a safety consultant.
His commitment to public service was exemplified through his remarkable 35 years as Warren City Councilman, dedicating more than three decades to serving his community with integrity and vision. Zachary was an active member of the Prince Hall Masonic Lodge and achieved the honor of 32nd Degree Consistory Mason.
His greatest pride was his membership in the Noble Klan and Bond of Kappa Alpha Psi, Inc., where he celebrated 50 years of brotherhood and service. This fraternal bond represented his lifelong commitment to achievement and service.
An avid outdoorsman, Zachary found joy in horseback riding with friends and exploring the country roads on four-wheelers. These passions reflected his adventurous spirit and love for life's simple pleasures.
Preceding Zachary in death were his parents, Zackaris R. Burks and Bernice Price Burks; his sisters, Mildred Baines and Dorothy Burks Baker; and his great-granddaughter, Vera Burks.
He leaves to cherish his memory his two sons, Zachary III and Mark; his brother, John D. Johnson; his sister, Virginia Lucille Hughes; his grandchildren, Christopher Burks, Zachary R. Burks IV, Kennedy Burks, Kyle Burks, and Logan Burks; and his great-granddaughter, Noelle Burks; along with extended family and countless friends whose lives he touched.
Zachary will be remembered for his positive outlook on life and his generous heart. He had an extraordinary gift for encouraging others and recognizing the best in people, leaving an indelible mark on everyone he met. His legacy of service, leadership, and love will continue to inspire and uplift the many lives he touched.
There will be a come and go visitation Thursday, August 7, 2025, from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Stephenson-Dearman Funeral Home. Funeral services will be Friday, August 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in the Stephenson-Dearman Funeral Chapel. There will be a public viewing from 10:00-11:00 a.m. preceding the funeral services on Friday. Interment with Military Honors will take place in the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock, AR on Monday, August 11, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. You can sign Zachary's guestbook here on his page.
Condolences(14)
Bernard Bradley
Tulsa, OK Friday, August 8, 2025 Can't believe you're gone Uncle Zack.. I'll never forget the love and support you always showed me as a little boy in Warren Ar.. Till the last time I saw you... Love and Miss You Uncle ♥️Charles Ferrell
Little Rock, AR Friday, August 8, 2025 Mr. Burks, so many things can be said about this Great Man, I am just grateful I was allowed to be in your presents over the years.Thank you for loving my family as your own and thank you for raising two great men that I have always looked up two and consider my brothers.
You are a true example of a Man and will be truly missed but never forgot.
Mr. Burks, the Kappa Man the Legend.
Agia Davis
Little Rock, AR Friday, August 8, 2025 My condolences to the Burks family. Zack was a very close friend to our family, (The M. T. Easter familt). He was very knowledgeable about everything. Whenever I would come home to Warren I always asked about him. Mr. Burks, you will truly be missed. Take your rest, until we meet again. ❤️Robbin Bailey and family
Plano, TX Friday, August 8, 2025 I grew up seeing Zack be very active in church. We will always remember his smile and kind words. Our fond memories of him will be cherished. Sending our sincere condolences to the family.Carolyn Denise Harding
Warren, AR Thursday, August 7, 2025 Condolences and prayers to the Burks family. I’ve pretty much known Bro. Zack all my life. However, I got to know him better when I worked for the City of Warren, while he served as councilman. He was very much loved and respected and will be missed. Brother Zack, rest in paradise, your work is done here.Lois Jackson
Jonesboro, AR Thursday, August 7, 2025 REST IN PEACE MR. BURKS!!Hollis Trotter
Fort Worth, TX Thursday, August 7, 2025 Zack, you could have told us that you were leaving. Your sudden departure stung us. But nevertheless, enjoy your rest. You've earned it and you will be missed!Dr Neich Robinson
Monticello, AR Wednesday, August 6, 2025 My sympathy is to the Burks Family. Mr Burks was the first person I met upon moving to SEArkansas in the 70’s. May God bless all of you ….Philippians 1:21 says…”For to me to live is Christ ,and to die is gain.”Marchell Leonard-Smith
Selma, AR Wednesday, August 6, 2025 Sending our deepest condolences to the Burks family. Mr. Zack was truly a great man who loved him some Candyman (Sandy Leonard) and Lady B (Birdie Leonard). We will cherish each moment that we shared with him. May God bless this family and strengthened them in the days to come. Love, The Leonard Family. Selma, ArkansasSharon Hegler
Hampton, AR Wednesday, August 6, 2025 Zack will be missed very much. Zack was like our family member. He would take my child riding on peanut. He was a very good hearted person that my family loved very much. Take your Rest my brother never good bye. We will see you again. Love Sharon Hegler & FamilyHelen EubanksGreen
Slidell, LA Tuesday, August 5, 2025 When I lived in Warren Arkansas, Bro. Zach Burks always greeted me with a big smile and kind words. Rest in Peace and Love Bro. Zach God Bless and Comfort the family at this moment and days to come 🙏Linda Russell
Cedar Hill, TX Tuesday, August 5, 2025 I have known Mr. Zach all my life. He has been the epitome of a good man. Always speaking showing good taste. My brother and he were classmates! To the family you have my sincere condolences and prayers! Cherish his love and those precious moments!! Love ❤️ Linda RussellVanessa Esposito
Bossier City, LA Tuesday, August 5, 2025 Zach 'Pop' has been a beloved figure in my life since childhood, and he will be greatly missed. My deepest condolences to the family during this difficult time.Sallie Calbert
Monticello Ar, AR Monday, August 4, 2025 I always called him Mr.Burks although we were family loved me some him, a man you could trust a man that stood behind his words a man that loved his Sons a man that would gave you his shirt off of his back Burks I miss you now and forever. Sally