James "Smokey" Burse of Rockford departed this earthly life March 5, 2023. He was born March 15, 1955 in Chicago the son of Christine Young and James Burse Jr. James lived in Rockford since 1973 coming from Chicago. He married the former Betty Sanders, June 27, 1981. James was employed as a machine operator by Testors Corporation over 30 years before retiring. He attended schools in Chicago, later to receive his G.E.D. through Job Corps.

James leaves to cherish many loving memories, wife, Betty; three daughters, Sirena Sanders, Tshell Burse and Jamie Burse; 5 grandchildren including one which he raised as his own, Jazman Sanders; five great grandchildren; step father, Cornelius Lay Jr; five brothers, Jeff Tate, Whitney Tate, Christopher Young, Larry (Pat) Tate and  Cornelius Lay III; two sisters, Lockie Young and Kim (Vernon ) Prince; a host of nieces, nephews cousins other relatives and friends, including god daughter, Derricka Cross. He was predeceased by his parents; three sisters, Linda Billups, Ronda Weatherby and Joann Young.

Memorial services will be held 12:00 p.m. Saturday, March 11, 2023 at Ephesians Missionary Baptist Church 1112 Taylor Street. Doors will be open from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service.