Fern Marilyn 'Granny' (Koett) Burgess

Graveside Service for Fern Marilyn “Granny” Burgess, 86, of Sallisaw, Oklahoma will be at 2:00 PM on Friday, October 6, 2023 at Steep Hill Cemetery in Fort Smith, Arkansas under the direction of Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Service, Inc.

She was born on December 19, 1936 in Muldrow, Oklahoma to Nannie Marie (Cankersley) Koett and Andrew F. Koett and passed away on October 2, 2023 in Fort Smith, Arkansas. She was married to Richard James Burgess, Sr. on February 23, 1955 in Sallisaw, Oklahoma. He preceded her in death on November 1, 2013. Fern was of the Nazarene faith. She loved gospel music, especially the old time gospel hymns. She was a gifted green thumb who enjoyed growing her own flowers, roses were her favorite. She was also an avid garage sale queen and was always on the lookout for good deals and thinking of what others might need or like. She, along with her husband, Richard, volunteered at the Marble City Food Pantry handing out food to the needy on a regular basis.She was a homemaker her entire life. She took great pride in caring for her home and family. As her family grew with grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Fern’s smile, love and cookie stash multiplied tenfold. She always made sure no one went without. Fern babysat several children from the Sallisaw area. All of them lovingly called her “Granny” which she was more than proud of. These now adults refer to her as “Granny” still today. When she was surrounded by her loved ones she was most happy and content. She loved to visit. Granny always greeted us with open arms and a big smile. Then she would always cry when it was time for us to leave. She definitely wore her heart on her sleeve.

Survivors are sons, Richard “Rick” James Burgess, Jr. of Sallisaw, OK, DeWayne Burgess, Sr. and Gloria of Sallisaw, OK and Scott Burgess of the home; daughter, Brenda Smith and Don of Claremore, OK; bonus son, Larry Armer and Denise of Short, OK; nine grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren; and several other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; two sisters and two brothers.

Active Pallbearers will be D.J. Burgess, Josh Burgess, Paul Joplin, Dustin Jaggers, Wesley Rainbolt and Larry Armer.

Viewing will be Noon – 8 PM Thursday at Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Home in Sallisaw, OK where the family will greet 6 – 8 PM.