284 Closing Leah Burks died on July 10, 2024. She was 81. Burks was the First Lady of Harding from 1987-2013 while her husband, David Burks, served as Harding’s president. Burks attended Harding University where she was a member of women’s social club Zeta Rho and a queen for men’s social club Beta Phi. Before serving as First Lady, she was an English teacher and an art teacher.When she became Harding’s first lady in Sept. 1987, Burks focused her talents into various organizations. She was active in Associated Women for Harding and also served as a sponsor for Zeta Rho. Burks was remembered for her gardening abilities, a skill she learned growing up on a farm. “She always had flowers growing no matter where she lived,” her son, Stephen Burks said. She often hosted events at her Harding Park home during her time as first lady. They became well-known around Harding. Liz Howell was a friend of Burks for many years. “Leah was [a] humble and immensely talented individual,” Howell said. “She and Dr. Burks hosted numerous events in their home, always adding thoughtful touches to make everyone feel welcomed. Despite her own challenges, Leah would consistently ask, ‘How can I help?’” Current First Lady of Harding Lisa Williams also spoke of Burks’ character. “She hosted things that I was a part of, and it was always immaculate,” Williams said. Pat Rice appreciated Leah Burks as a friend. “Leah was a pretty lady with a nice smile,” Rice said. “She enjoyed as much being known as a gardener, farm girl as being first lady of Harding. In serving her with health care, I never heard her complain.” Cindy Hunter, executive assistant to Harding’s President Dr. Mike Williams, met Leah Burks in 1989 when Hunter began working at Harding. “Leah was very kind and gracious,” Hunter said. “She had great taste and decorated beautifully. She was passionate about her family, gardening and cooking. . . She was a woman of many talents.” Hunter treasured her time with her, along with Howell. “She was a wonderful listener and a trusted confidante,” Howell said. “One of the most cherished gifts from my time at Harding was Leah’s friendship.” FIRST LADY BURKS Leah Burks poses for a photo. Burks served as the first lady of Harding from 1987-2013. Photo by Jeff Montgomery In Memory of Leah Burks Burks touched the lives of countless members of the Harding community and will be remembered for her Christ-like behavior. “Leah will always be remembered for her ability to make people feel welcome and comfortable around her, which she always did, but especially during the years she served as the first lady of Harding,” Hunter said. Written by Helen Strickland
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