Rufus Robert Burnham Jr.

Dr. Rufus Robert "Bob" Burnham Jr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, and minister, passed away peacefully on February 22, 2026, in Marion, Arkansas, at the age of 72. Born on April 18, 1953, in Bruce, Mississippi, Dr. Bob was a dedicated servant of God and a devoted member of the community. He was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it.

Dr. Bob graduated from Bruce High School in 1971 and pursued further education at Northwest Junior College. He completed his Bachelor of Arts in Education at the University of Mississippi in 1975 before attending seminary in Memphis, Tennessee. He later earned his PhD in Ministry from the Candler School of Theology at Emory University. Over his 40-year career, Dr. Bob served various Methodist churches across Mississippi and Arkansas, touching countless lives through his ministry. Dr. Bob was a servant of Jesus Christ and took great pride in his work. He retired from his role as a minister on July 1, 2018.

Dr. Bob is remembered for his unwavering faith, compassion, and the love he shared with his family and congregation. He is survived by his wife, Janet Burnham; his daughters, Melanie Burnham (Joe) Crockett and Bethany Carole Burnham both of whom are of Harrison, AR; his grandchildren, Griffin, Geren, Graylen, and Golden Crockett; and his sister-in-law, Vicki Price of Olive Branch, MS.

Funeral services will be held in honor of Dr. Bob on February 26, 2026, at the West Memphis First United Methodist Church. A public viewing will take place beginning at 10:00 am, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 am, Rev. Brad Elrod will be officiating. Later that day, a graveside service will be held at Pinecrest Memorial Garden in Calhoun City, Mississippi, at 4:00 pm.

Serving as pallbearers will be Jason Allison, John Caldwell, Geren Crockett, Graylen Crockett, Griffin Crockett, Golden Crockett, Joe Crockett, Scott Tims, Trevor Tims, and Tucker Tims.

Dr. Bob was preceded in death by his father, Rufus Robert Burnham Sr.; mother, Shirley Mooneyham Burnham; sister, Carole Jean Tims; and brother, Billy Keith Burnham.

"His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord." Matthew 25:23

The Staff of Parker Memorial Funeral Home is honored to serve the Burnham family as they begin this new season of life. We ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they mourn the loss of their loved one.