Hiram Levi Burch, 82, of Altavista peacefully went to be with the Lord, surrounded by his family on Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024 at Autumn Care of Altavista after a lengthy battle with cancer. He was the husband of Bettie Kemmerly Burch.

He was born May 27, 1942, in Rockbridge County, a son of the late Charlie E. Burch and Annie Vest Lilly. 

Hiram was a man of ingenuity, creativity, quick wit, and strength. He graduated from Parry McCluer High School in Buena Vista and remained a “Fighting Blue” his entire life. Having played football, basketball, and running track, he never missed an opportunity to tell you about “In 1962, the Blues …” 

Hiram retired a proud lineman/foreman for Virginia Electric and Power Company (VEPCO/Dominion Power), carrying with him a legacy of hard work and dedication. 

An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed archery, trout fishing, and the mountain beauty of central and southwest Virginia. He also loved the challenge of Sudoku puzzles, tinkering around the house, and finding those hidden gems at area auctions.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Cynthia B. Ramsey and her husband Kenneth, and Debra B. Spencer and her husband John; one son, Hiram “Chip” Burch Jr.; and one granddaughter, Brooke Spencer.

He was the last surviving sibling of a large and devoted family, having been preceded in death by his brothers, whom he idolized, Harold Burch and Clinton Burch; as well as his sisters, whom he adored, Margaret Seelke, Glenna Burch, Gladys Hart and Mattie Bergener.

A service of remembrance was conducted Monday, Nov. 11, at Finch & Finch Chapel, Altavista, with inurnment following in Green Hill Cemetery, Altavista.

Please visit the online tribute at www.finchandfinchfuneralservice.com to share a memory or send a condolence to the family.