Waters J Burroughs

Waters James Burroughs, 89, of Springfield, Massachusetts, departed this life peacefully on Wednesday, November 26, 2025.

  Born on September 24, 1936, in Florence, South Carolina, Waters was the beloved son of the late George and Minnie (Cooper) Burroughs.  He carried the warmth and resilience of his Southern roots throughout his long and fulfilling life.

  A proud patriot, Waters was a distinguished veteran of the United States Air Force.  His military career allowed him to see the world and serve his country with honor, with assignments that took him from Las Vegas, Nevada, Massachusetts, and Maine, to an international post in Africa.  The discipline and dedication he learned would define his professional life.

  Waters had a remarkable 38-year career as a skilled aerospace mechanic at Pratt & Whitney Aircraft.  He took great pride in his meticulous work, contributing to the safety and innovation of the aerospace industry until his well-deserved retirement.

  Waters’ commitment to service extended far beyond his professional life and into his community and faith.  A devout man, he served faithfully as a Deacon at the Canaan Baptist Church of Christ in Springfield for 34 years, where his wisdom and kindness were a cornerstone of the congregation.

  His civic engagement was equally profound.  He was a dedicated member of the 16 Acres Lions Club for an extraordinary 50 years.  His tireless efforts in community service were recognized with the prestigious Melvin Jones Fellowship Award, the highest form of recognition within the organization, symbolizing his deep humanitarianism and unwavering commitment to serving others.

  Above all, Waters was a devoted family man.  He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Bessie, with whom he shared 63 years of marriage filled with love, partnership, and mutual support.  He was a loving father to his sons, James and Kenneth, and a cherished father-in-law to Giselle.  His legacy of integrity, kindness, and dedication will live on through them.

A wake and funeral service to celebrate Waters’ life will be held on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the Canaan Baptist Church of Christ, located in Springfield, Massachusetts.  Following the service, he will be laid to rest with military honors at the Massachusetts Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery in Agawam, Massachusetts

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