Tom Burke, 68, of Mechanicsville, MD, formerly of Indian Head, MD, died September 13, 2012 at Washington Hospital Center. Born April 8, 1944 in Washington, D.C., he was the son of James Thomas Burke and Beatrice Bell Schawkey Burke.

Tom was a member of the Hughesville Baptist Church and a 1962 graduate of Lackey High School. In fact, he was planning to attend his 50th class reunion. He was a graduate of the Corcoran School of Art. Art and photography were always his special interests. He pursued a career in graphic arts and fashion photography. Tom also designed the "Dole" banana label, which was used for many years. In later years, he discovered his true calling and became an art teacher. Tom taught art at the Grace Lutheran School of La Plata, MD, and the Kings Christian Academy in Callaway, MD, where he painted the KCA Eagle that hangs proudly on the gym wall today.

He enjoyed traveling, his dogs, listening to books on tape, doing research on many subjects, and being involved with his grandchildren. In his retirement years he enjoyed keeping in touch with all of his friends. He had a special heart for encouraging those who were sick and in need with a card, phone call, visit and prayer. He was an avid Washington Redskins fan, he was known for his infectious smile and laugh, sense of humor, his extensive novelty tie collection and always having candy in his pocket to share (AKA the Candy Man). He will be missed tremendously.

Predeceased by his parents, Tom is survived by his wife, Linda Jean Matala Burke, and children: Shawn Burke of Washington, Brian Bos (Valerie) of Georgia, Thomas Burke of Pennsylvania, Timothy Burke (Kristin) of Florida, Lisa Burke of Washington, and Jennifer Donaldson (Scott) of St. Mary's City, MD, and his grandchildren: Weston, Tanner, Cody and Abigail Donaldson; Mason Burke; Nicholas, Emily and Christopher Bos; and Miles Burke. He is survived by a brother, James Burke (Loretta) of Welcome, MD.

The family will receive friends for Tom's Life Celebration on Thursday, September 20, 2012 from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Hughesville Baptist Church, 8505 Leonardtown Road, Hughesville, MD. A funeral service will be held on Friday, September 21, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. at Hughesville Baptist Church with procession to cemetery immediately following.

Memorial donations may be made to Hughesville Baptist Church, 8505 Leonardtown Road, Hughesville, MD 20637 or to Kings Christian Academy, 20738. Point Lookout Rd., Callaway, MD 20620.

Arrangements provided by Brinsfield Funeral Home.