Burke Allen Guillory

Burke Allen Guillory, a beloved member of his community, passed away on Saturday, June 1, 2024, in Broussard, Louisiana. Burke was born on Thursday, August 25, 1938, in Vidrine, Louisiana to Cyrus and Elise Beauregard Guillory and lived every minute of his 85 years to its fullest.  A memorial service will be held at Ardoin’s Funeral Home in Ville Platte on Wednesday, June 5, 2024 at 3:00 PM and will be led by Fr. Tom Voorhies.  Burial will follow in the Platin Cemetery.

Burke's journey began at Vidrine High School and continued at UL, formerly known as SLI during his academic pursuits. He was a hard worker and was dedicated to any task at hand which was evident throughout his career as he taught high school math and later worked at the Louisiana Office of Family Support where he retired as the Director of the Food Stamp Program. Burke was also the co-owner and operator of Guillory Food Lane in Ville Platte for several years. Additionally, his love for horses led him to own and operate Black Sheep and BAGBO Racing stables. His multifaceted career showcased his commitment to serving others in various capacities.
 
Aside from his professional endeavors, Burke was known for his culinary skills. He took great pleasure in making gravies for his family and friends, ensuring each dish was flavored to perfection through hours of meticulous cooking.  Burke excelled in sports; he was a state boxing champion for two years during high school and enjoyed playing softball as an adult. Throughout his life, he maintained a deep love for animals, enjoyed hunting (even dabbling in alligator hunting), and passionately participated in horse racing. 

Burke Allen Guillory leaves behind a legacy of warmth, generosity, and dedication that will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known him. He is survived by the love of his life for over 40 years, Brenda Olivier Guillory; three sons, Samuel Guillory (Deborah), Daniel Guillory, and James Cyrus Guillory; six grandchildren, Garrett Broussard, Kagan Guillory, Sydney Guillory, Cyrus Guillory (Karly), Allison Smith (Kaleb), and Adam Guillory; and six great grandchildren, Caleb, Ivy, Ray, Sianna, Hayes, and Oliver.  Also left behind to cherish his memory are Joanne Guillory, the mother of his children; brother-in-law, Patrick Olivier, sisters-in-law, Margaret Chandler and Maude LaGrange; nephews, Carl Fontenot (Gayle) and Michael Saltzman; and niece, Evelyn Sue Fontenot.

Burke was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Geraldine Fontenot (Percy) and Bettie McCauley; brother-in-law, Edward Chandler; and nephew, Eric Saltzman

A visitation to honor Burke's memory will take place on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, at Ardoin's Funeral Home in Ville Platte from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM followed by the memorial service.

The Guillory family would like to thank A Care Partner, Heart of Hospice (Lara Martin and Kellie Henry), and the staff of the Blake at Lafayette for the professional, compassionate and loving care they provided for their loved one.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in Burke’s memory.

Family and friends may leave condolences for the family at www.ardoinfuneralhomes.com.