Obituary of Keisha D. Burkes

Keisha Darice Burkes was the second child born to Elliott and Wendy Burkes, entering this world on November 28, 1973, at Lakeside Hospital in Copiague, New York. She graduated from Wyandanch Memorial High School in 1991 and continued her education at Briarcliffe College, where she received her certification as a Medical Assistant. She later attended Suburban Technical School and studied court reporting as well. Keisha was employed at United Cerebral Palsy in Hauppauge, New York as an ICP Specialist for over eighteen years and was currently studying medical billing and coding at Sanford-Brown Institute. She was due to graduate in June at the top of her class. Keisha was known for her sense of humor and everyone who was fortunate enough to have been in her presence will remember her infectious laugh and warm smile.She always tried to make the people around her laugh or smile as well, lending a listening ear and offering words of encouragement to anyone in need. She did not believe in being angry and did not like to see anyone sad. She loved music and more than anything she loved spending time with family, especially the children. "Aunty Keesh" loved the kids. Keisha Burkes was a devoted mother, daughter, sister and aunt. She was called to eternal rest on May 17, 2016 and will be missed terribly by all who knew her. She leaves to cherish her memory two sons, David Pilgrim and Reneris Santuches; grandson, Javid Pilgrim; mother, Wendy; sisters, Ramona and Demetria Burkes; brothers, Elliott Burkes and Curtis Felton; nephews, Demetrius Garrett, Elliott Burkes, Jr., Silas Burkes and Reginald Flowers; nieces, Ashonti Merritt, Ayanni Merritt (goddaughter), Ariana Lyles and Sariyah Burkes; great niece,Malaysia Garrett; fiancé, Vernon Johnson; and a host of beloved aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.