Bryson Brett Burks

It is with great sadness that we share Bryson Burks gained his wings, 12/18/2023, just before his 20th birthday on 12/19/2023.

Bryson was born in Tupelo Mississippi to Beverly Chris Johnson and Billy Brett Burks. At a young age Bryson was baptized at North Star Church in Saltillo Mississippi. A natural born leader he was the President of his 5th grade class. In his early years he enjoyed playing basketball, football, soccer and tennis. Bryson loved hunting, camping and anything outdoors. He enjoyed the backroads of Mississippi riding in a topless jeep listening and singing to loud music.

Once Bryson was in high school, he made a decision to focus his sports abilities on baseball as a catcher and football as a tight end. Academically he was very gifted and was a member of the National Honor Society, County Court Judge in the State of Texas Youth and Government, the President of Fellowship of Christian Athletes and was a member of FISH.

Bryson was the Founder and CEO of Kidney Head, a non-profit organization which was inspired from the illness and passing of Bryson’s father (Billy Brett Burks) 9 years ago. He was an advocate and raised awareness for organ donation and kidney disease transplant in 42 countries and almost every state in the United States.

As the gregarious and outgoing young man he was, Bryson was awarded a full academic scholarship to Howard Payne University, where he also played both football and baseball, was the VP of Student Government, and the leader for mock trial/mute court; he was also the youngest member of the Kiwanis Club. In addition to all his involvement in school activities he worked with the grounds crew at Howard Payne University and enjoyed working at Dick's Sporting Goods.

More than all of his accomplishments though (and there are so very many), Bryson will forever hold a place in our hearts as a star that shone extra bright, with a smile as big as Texas, a heart even bigger, and the wit, intellect, and wisdom only a select few in this world are gifted. He was a child of God, an athlete, a scholar, a hunter, a philanthropist, an adventure-lover, a wonderful friend, and a loving and gracious son who loved his mom and dad dearly.

Losing a child is one of the greatest heartbreaks a person can endure. Bryson’s mother, Chris Johnson Burks, and his family and friends are in complete shock and devastation of his passing and death by suicide. Between the pressures of individual grief, funeral expenses, and the countless challenges associated his loss, we (his family and friends) have created a GoFundMe page Click Here

We turn to you, our community, for your kindness, prayers, and generosity. Your contributions will not only alleviate some of the challenges brought on by this tragedy but also serve as a testament to the strength of God’s Grace and the power of the community standing in solidarity in remembering Bryson’s bright spirit.

For some of you, financial contributions may not be feasible, and that's perfectly okay. Your love, presence and prayers are equally valuable in helping Chris Burks and their family during this time.

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much” -

More than anything, please honor Bryson’s life by being kind to one another—for you may never know the battle someone may be fighting.

Isaiah 41:10 (Bryson’s favorite Bible passage)
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

If you or a loved one is struggling with mental or emotional health, please reach out. “With help, comes hope.”

1-800-273-8255 or simply dial 988 #youmatter

Memorials donations may be made to the GoFundMe Click Here