Clarence Edward "Red" Burdette, 81, of Dunbar, peacefully departed this life on Friday, January 26, 2007, after a short illness.

Due to the loving care provided to Clarence by his wife of 59 years, Merita Virginia Burdette, he was able to spend his last months and final moments at home surrounded by those he loved.

Clarence entered this life on June 5, 1925 as the son of the late Thomas Allen Burdette and Pearl Fields Burdette. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister Ruth Bailey and his brothers, Ronnie Burdette and Roy Burdette.

Clarence was retired from Ashland Oil/Hobet Mining & Construction as a heavy equipment mechanic, but continued his trade as an auto mechanic until he reached age 62 and then focused on his full-time adventure of helping to raise his two youngest children.

He spent the next decade devoted to his family and his love of travel, in which he traveled all over the Pacific Northwest and the western part of the United States, all after the age of 70. He was an avid car enthusiast who loved traveling, flying, reading, nature, NASCAR and spending time with his family and his Boston Terriers.

Clarence was known as a quiet, intelligent gentleman who was loved by all who knew him. As he begins his eternal life, he leaves behind his wife of 59 years, Merita Virginia Burdette, his son, Shane Christopher Burdette of Dunbar, his daughters, Melissa Lynn Withrow of Gandeeville, Renee Ann Cross of Winfield, and Shauna Shadd of Dunbar, and his grandchildren, Madison Withrow, Tanner Cross and Trevor Cross. Also surviving are his brother, Richard Burdette of Charleston; sisters, Rosalee Weese of Sissonville, and Ruby Wingate of Hampton, VA. He is also survived a special sister-in-law, Diane Burdette of Charleston, and also by many others who called his home their second home over the years.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, January 30, at Keller Funeral Home, Dunbar, with the Rev. Donnie Kiser officiating. Burial will follow in Goff-McClanahan Cemetery, Sissonville.

Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m., Monday, January 29, at Keller Funeral Home, Dunbar.

The family would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to family friend, Sandra Broyles, for her love and support during this time, and to HospiceCare, especially Tonya, Peggy and Connie for caring for him with dignity and love while God prepared a special place for him.

Arrangements are in the care of Keller Funeral Home, Dunbar.