Leslie “”Dee”” DeForest Burks, 51, son of Leslie Burks and Virginia DeForest Amyx, was born April 24, 1953, at Rolla. He died Feb. 23, 2005, at Licking, as a result of an auto accident.He married Debbie Rider Oct. 1, 1984. They had three sons.Mr. Burks loved flying and was a long-time pilot. He was a scuba-diving instructor, trainer and evaluator. His interest and love of the sport led him to start a business selling diving gear in Licking. One of his favorite places to dive was in the Yucatan, Mexico, region.His special joy was being with his family, going camping, four-wheeling and vacation time.He joined the Mount Olive Baptist Church June 12, 1994, where he served as a trustee.He was preceded in death by his parents.Surviving are his wife of the home; three sons, Jerred DeForest Burks, Michael Frank Burks and Justin Neil Burks of the home; and one sister, Virginia Ellen Burks of Licking.Memorial services were Feb. 26 at the Mount Olive Baptist Church with Bill Tallant officiating under the direction of Evans Funeral Home of Houston. “
