Steve Terrell Burden

Stephen Terrell Burden, age 81, of Gainesville, Georgia passed away peacefully Sunday, April 26, 2026. Stephen was born on September 18, 1944, in Hartwell, Georgia, son of Sidney James Burden and Mattie Jane Bobo. Stephen graduated from Hart County High School and went on to serve in the United States Army with the 1st Cavalry Division (airmobile) in Vietnam. He was later awarded a Purple Heart and Bronze Star for his service and valor. He returned home to continue his education, graduating from Piedmont College and continued with a career serving others, working with the State of Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Services until his retirement.

Stephen was an avid hunter, loved cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs, and enjoyed a good cup of coffee! He was a wonderful father, brother and friend to many and he will be deeply missed.

Stephen is preceded in death by his parents; sisters Vivian Hull and Margie Clowe; brothers Owen Burden and James (Jack) Burden. He is survived by his daughters, Hailey Merritt (Scott), Julie Burden; grandchildren Madelyne, Elyse and Flora Beth Merritt; brother Jerry Burden; brother-in-law, John Clowe, sisters-in-law Dale (Schuck) Burden and Frances (Givens) Burden; and the mother of his daughters, Sandra Burden Keith; several nieces, nephews and great friends.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00pm on Saturday, May 16, 2026, in the Chapel at Memorial Park Funeral Home in Gainesville, GA. The family will hold visitation from 2:00pm-3:00pm prior to the service. Officiating: Pastor Whit Martin. Interment and graveside service will follow at 2:00pm on Sunday, May 17th, at Nancy Hart Memorial Park in Harwell, Georgia. Officiating: Pastor Ken Buffington.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org.

Memorial Park Funeral Home, 2030 Memorial Park Drive, Gainesville, GA 30504 oversees arrangements.

Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell is in charge of local arragements.