Thomas Harrison “Bug” Burch, 92
November 1, 1933 – February 22, 2026
Thomas Harrison Burch, known and loved by many as “Bugg,” departed this earthly world on Sunday evening, February 22, 2026, at the age of 92, at Jackson General Hospital in Jackson, Tennessee.
A graveside service honoring Mr. Burch’s long and well-lived life will be held at 1 PM on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, in Evergreen Cemetery in Williston, Tennessee, with a brief thirty-minute visitation beginning at 12:30 PM. Bro. Troy Powers will officiate.
Born November 1, 1933, in Williston, Tennessee, Mr. Burch was the son of the late William Erby and Lois Smith Burch. A proud graduate of Fayette County High School, he went on to become one of the most respected and sought-after mechanics in the community. For decades, Bugg’s hands were stained with honest grease and hard work, as he owned and operated Bugg’s Garage before later working from his home. There truly wasn’t a motor made that intimidated him. From cars and tractors to bulldozers, lawnmowers, and even the occasional helicopter, he had a gift for diagnosing a problem almost before the hood was raised. Folks often said he could hear an engine crank over the phone and tell you exactly what it needed. His mechanical ability wasn’t just a trade — it was a calling, and he served countless neighbors and friends through it.
A proud veteran of the National Guard and a faithful Southern Baptist, Mr. Burch believed in living a life grounded in faith, hard work, and simple pleasures. Outside of the shop, he found his greatest joy along the Tennessee River. Whether he was near the water, on it, or simply enjoying the peaceful view of it, the river brought him a quiet happiness that matched his steady spirit. He had a knack for collecting all sorts of treasures over the years — little pieces of history and memories that told stories, much like the man himself.
Bugg valued honesty above all else. He believed a man’s word meant something, that a handshake sealed the deal, and that helping your neighbor was just what you did. He was the kind of fella who would quite literally give you the shirt off his back, never asking for anything in return. Through his generosity and straightforward nature, he built not just a business, but lifelong friendships that will stand as part of his lasting legacy.
While the community will miss him deeply — the familiar hum of engines in his shop, his steady advice, and his quiet strength — there is comfort in knowing where Mr. Burch rests today. For ninety-two years, he labored faithfully, laying up treasures not made by hands. Now he is healed, whole, and surely hearing the sweetest sound of all — “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Those left to cherish his memories include his faithful companion, Debbie Ellington, his two daughters, Sherry Parker, and Terry Pierce (Sonny), his sister, Bettye Gale Leatherwood, six grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren, and five great great grandchildren, along with a community of wonderful friends and extended family.
He was also preceded in death by his son, Thomas “Tommy” Burch, Jr.
Ripley Funeral Home invites you to share memories with Mr. Burch’s family.
Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.
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Visitation
Wednesday
February 25, 2026
12:30 PM to 1:00 PM
Evergreen Cemetery
7300 TN-76
Williston, TN 38706
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Graveside Service
Wednesday
February 25, 2026
1:00 PM
Evergreen Cemetery
7300 TN-76
Williston, TN 38706
