Nathan Clark Burgess

Willow Spring - Nathan Burgess, 49, passed away surrounded by family and friends on Sunday November 12, 2023 at Duke University Medical Center after an 18 month battle with cancer. Nathan was born in Kansas City, Missouri to Gene Burgess and Carleen Jung.

Nathan lived a life of service. After graduating from high school, Nathan enlisted in the United States Navy spending the majority of his time on aircraft carriers. After his commitment to the Navy, he continued serving others by joining the ranks of public safety in 1998. He began dedicating his time to the citizens of Johnston County as an EMT before transitioning into the 50-210 Fire Department in 1999. It was there that he found his calling. Nathan joined the Raleigh Fire Department in 2003. Throughout his career he served the residents of Wake and Johnston Counties. Nathan’s dedication to the profession throughout his career earned him the titles of firefighter, lieutenant, captain, academy instructor, live burn instructor, and ultimately Task Force 8 Team Leader. Within the 50-210 Fire Department, Nathan rose to the position of Fire Chief. When he wasn’t in uniform, you could find him on the lake fishing or working in his shop.

Father. Veteran. Husband. Firefighter. Son. Friend. Hero. All titles he wore with honor. He will be missed by not only his family but also by the men and women he served alongside.

Nathan is survived by his parents Gene Burgess and Carleen Jung; wife of 18 years, Christy Burgess; daughters Chayse, Peyton, and Neise; son Garris; sister Tiffany Ellison (Travis); brother Cody Burgess (Kelly); mother-in-law Deborah Waters; brother-in-law, H. Waters; step-sister, Stacey Stitz; two nieces; and five nephews. Nathan is preceded in death by his daughter, Hope Noelle, his stepfather Randy Jung, and his father-in-law Milford Waters.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, November 19th at 3:00 P.M. at the Johnston Community College Auditorium in Smithfield, N.C. The family will receive friends afterwards.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Phoenix Project 780 at 65 Glen Road, P.O. Box 291, Garner NC 27529.