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Willard A. Burris, Felton, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday March 8, 2026, he was 67. Rusty as he was affectionately called all his life, was the son of the late Chester and Margaret Burris.
Rusty was a fourth- generation waterman who called Rock Hall, MD his home. Working on boats his whole life, Rusty never missed a day of work, whether it was crabbing, horseshoe crabbing, or shucking oysters, his passion was being out on the water. He was a hardworking, dedicated, and well-respected waterman who had a network of fellow watermen and friends all over Del Mar Va. Rusty also split his time working from a young age at the scrapple house with Hughes Scrapple of Felton.
Rusty was known as a quiet nice man who was well loved by all that knew him. His reputation always preceded him as an honest and decent person. He enjoyed time spent with family and his passing will leave a void by all that knew him, but his legacy will live on.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded by his late wife, Patricia Burris.
He is survived by his sons, Ryan and Raymond Burris; sister, Teresa Lewis; grandchildren, Carmen Burris, Rayla Burris, Ramon Burris, Wendy Rae Burris; great grandson, Khamani Whaley; nephews, Stephen Jones (Chrissy), Michael Jones; and his companion, Anna Rogers.
A Memorial Service for Rusty will take place at the Thomas E. Melvin & Son Funeral Home, 15522 S. DuPont Hwy., Harrington, DE, on Friday, March 13, 2026, at 6 PM, with a visitation for family and friends starting at 5 PM.
Friday, March 13, 2026
5:00 - 6:00 pm (Eastern time)
Melvin Funeral Home
Friday, March 13, 2026
6:00 - 6:30 pm (Eastern time)
Melvin Funeral Home
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