Franklin "Leroy" Burgin passed from this life to the presence of his loving Saviour on Tuesday, May 5, 2026. He was 79. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Lila Burgin, biological parents Frank and Margaret Lambert, brother Albert, sister Joyce, and granddaughter, Amanda Rose.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Erlene Wasdin Burgin who remained faithfully by his side until his departure from this earth.

His son, Richard Corey Burgin (Renee) of Dade City, FL, brother Ronnie Burgin, of High Springs, FL, sister Leanna, of Gainesville, FL, son (stepson) Chris Rose, (Charlene) of Waldo, FL, and daughter (stepdaughter) Jilene Tomlinson (Billy) of Jacksonville, FL.

He will also be missed by many nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great grandchildren.

Leroy Burgin was born on October 12, 1946, in Grand Junction, Colorado. After living in numerous states of the U.S., including Alaska, the family settled in the Gainesville area.

Leroy graduated from GHS and attended the University of Florida where he graduated with a Bachelors of Science. He served in the United States Army for 4 years. He received certification and worked in the field of hematology technologist until he retired. He married Pat (Trish) and together they share a son, Richard Corey Burgin.

Mr. Burgin later relocated to the Hawthorne area where he attended North Central Florida Baptist Church and was a member of the choir there. It is here where Mr. Burgin developed a strong passion for sharing his love for the Lord.

In response to his deep sense of gratitude for the immense suffering and sacrifice of Jesus, his self-produced acrylic painting depicts a soldier on bended knee worshipping beneath the cross.

In 1989, he met Erlene Wasdin, and they married on January 12, 1990. Mr. Burgin always gave credit to the Lord for answering his earnest prayer for a Godly, devoted wife.

Together they have enjoyed many adventures as they shared a devotion to Christ and to each other. Leroy was an experienced diver and Erlene eagerly took classes and became certified as well. Along with scuba diving, they enjoyed boating and sailing and sharing their gulf vacation home with grandchildren in the summer. Leroy became affectionately known as "Papa B" by the grandchildren.

Leroy and Erlene enjoyed traveling, even out of the country to Mexico. And to meet their newest granddaughter, Katerine Rauda Rose, traveled to El Salvador.

Erlene and Leroy moved to Hampton, FL in 2024 to be closer to family.

As the years passed, Leroy's love for nature and God's creation was now best expressed in his landscaping and gardening skills, daily walks.

His favorite pet, a cat named Comet, would always accompany him. She is 20 years old and now misses her constant companion.

Leroy enjoyed watching movies and some of his favorites of his vast collection of DVD's include The Passion and The Sound of Music.

His loss is monumental to his family, but we find comfort in knowing all that he has gained. Until we meet again on Heaven's shore, we miss you more than words can say. We love you, Papa B!

Celebration of Life will be Saturday, May 23 at 11:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church of Waldo, 14370 Kennard St, Waldo, FL 32694, United States.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Acteens program at First Baptist Church of Waldo.

Arrangements are by JONES-GALLAGHER FUNERAL HOME, 620 E. Nona Street, Dr., Starke, FL 32091. (904) 964-6200. www.jonesgallagherfh.com