Beatrice (Jackson) Burge, Longtime Swifton Resident, Dies at 101

Devoted churchgoer and gardener leaves behind a legacy of family and community service.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 7:33pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph in warm, earthy tones depicting an elderly woman's hands gently caring for plants in a lush garden, capturing the quiet beauty and tranquility of a lifetime of devotion.The vibrant garden that Beatrice Burge lovingly tended for decades was a source of joy and pride for the Swifton community.Newport Today

Beatrice (Jackson) Burge, a lifelong resident of Swifton, Arkansas, passed away on April 2, 2026 at the age of 101. Mrs. Burge was a homemaker, a devout member of the Swifton Church of Christ, and known for her beautiful, well-tended yard. She was preceded in death by her husband, two sons, and one daughter, and is survived by one daughter, several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchild, as well as nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Why it matters

Mrs. Burge's passing marks the end of an era for the small town of Swifton, where she had been a pillar of the community for over a century. Her dedication to her faith, family, and community reflect the values that have sustained many rural Arkansas towns through periods of change and challenge.

The details

Beatrice (Jackson) Burge was born in the Battle Axe Community of Tuckerman, Arkansas, the daughter of Harvey and Lula Mae (Nugent) Jackson. She was baptized in the Black River as a girl and remained a devout member of the Swifton Church of Christ throughout her life. Mrs. Burge was known for her beautiful, well-tended yard and her love of gardening and spending time outdoors.

  • Beatrice (Jackson) Burge passed away on Thursday, April 2, 2026.
  • Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at the Swifton Church of Christ.

The players

Beatrice (Jackson) Burge

A 101-year-old lifelong resident of Swifton, Arkansas, known for her devotion to her church, her beautiful yard, and her close-knit family.

Clyde Burge

Beatrice's late husband.

Alvin Prince

One of Beatrice's late sons.

Dale Burge

One of Beatrice's late sons.

Clydene Burge Weaver

Beatrice's late daughter.

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What they’re saying

“Beatrice was a pillar of our community for over a century. Her faith, her family, and her beautiful yard were an inspiration to us all.”

— Mildred Prince, Beatrice's daughter

What’s next

Beatrice Burge will be laid to rest at Swifton Cemetery following the funeral service on Tuesday, April 7th.

The takeaway

Beatrice Burge's long life and deep roots in Swifton, Arkansas exemplify the enduring values of faith, family, and community that have sustained small towns across the American South for generations. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy will live on through the many lives she touched.