Gerard H. Burford

Indianapolis, Indiana – Gerard H. Burford, “Smokey”, passed away on February 15, 2024, after being comforted by his family and friends. Gerard was born on June 26, 1931, in Effingham, Illinois to parents Joseph Burford and Hilma (Long) Burford. He was 92 years old. 

Gerard enlisted into the Air Force and served with them for over 20 years, including tours during the Vietnam War. He also worked for Merchant’s Bank as manager for 15 years and another 18 as a substance abuse counselor for Veterans Affairs. 

Gerard met his beloved wife, Barbara in Teutopolis, Illinois. They were married on June 5, 1955, and remained devoted until her passing in 2015. 

Gerard was a devout Catholic and attending St. Simon Church and Holy Spirit Church for many years, passing along his strong beliefs to his children. He devoted many hours to volunteering at church, Gleaner’s Food Bank, and Meals on Wheels with WTHR even doing a ride-along with him on his delivery route. 

Gerard loved to travel and visiting sites across the country. More than anything else, Smokey loved his family. He was his children’s biggest supporter and fan. He had a generous and kind heart full of dad jokes to make them all laugh. 

Gerard is preceded in death by his parents, his two brothers and sister, his wife Barb and his daughter Linda Mans. 

Gerard is survived by his daughters; Patricia Terry, Karen Carter (Dewey), Janet Vardaman (Jeff), sons Steven Burford (Antoinette), and David Burford (Judy); 13 grandchildren, many great grandchildren. 

Visitation will be held at Flanner Buchanan – Washington Park East funeral home (10722 East Washington Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46229) from 4 pm – 6 pm on Friday, February 23, 2024. Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church (7243 East 10^th Street, Indianapolis Indiana, 46219) at 11 am. Entombment will take place at Washington Park East Cemetery following Mass.