Jerry Burl Lance

Obituary

Jerry Burl Lance, 90, a devoted family man went to his heavenly home on August 21, 2026.

Burl was proceeded in death by his parents, Mayo and Elsie Surrett Lance; son, Rick Lance; son-in-law, Michael McMinn; and siblings: Ruby, Walter, Margie, Alfred, Alfa, Lucy, Hassie, Reid, Dorothy, Hattie, Grady, Raymond, and Thelma. Also waiting to meet him are great grandkids: Hope McMinn, Asher Christian and Axel Camp.

Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 70 years in September, Rhea Riddle Lance; daughters: Rita (Alvin) Barnwell and Roxanne McMinn; grandkids: Renita (Dean) Blackwell, Damon (Carrie) Barnwell, Josh (Christi) McMinn, Tabatha (Myles) Christian, Michaela (Brian) Camp, Tyler (Sara) Lance, and Brittany (Travis) Shearer; great grandkids: Caitlyn, Logan, Ayden, Molly, Jadyn (Cameron), Brody, McKenna, Blair, Amelia, Ashton, Bennett, Allie, Mia, Lily, Avery, Callan, Parker, Addie Wayne, William, Anders, and Maverick; adopted son, Zè Siqueira, and sister Jean Conard.

Born January 4, 1936 Burl was a graduate of Mills River High School, class of 1955, where he participated in 4H, FFA, and played baseball. "Pleasure and action make the hours seem short." Burl was a very accomplished man. He was the president of the Home Builders Association both state and national and the NCHBA Builder of the Year 1981 and 1985. Burl drove for Youngblood Truck Lines and was the safety manager. He ran VO Freight and Bestway Systems. With Burl Lance Builders and Realty he built Wildwood, Murfield, and Turnberry to name a few. Burl was an avid golfer who had several hole-in-ones and was the 2020 Super Senior Champion. He enjoyed telling his grandkids of his accomplishments including: being 1st in cattle judging, 1st in the National Truck Rodeo, and his perfect driving record. He enjoyed watching the kids play in the pool and hosting his annual 4th of July cookout. Per Burl, "I'm only passing this way once," and during his time he made a big impact on this world. Visitation will be held at Fletcher First Baptist Church on Saturday August 29, 2026 at 4pm with a service to follow at 5pm.