Louis G. Burgess

03/21/1939-12/29/2024

Louis G Burgess passed away on December 29, 2024 at the age of 85 in Louisville, Kentucky. Fondly known as "Lou" and "Buddy," he is remembered as a patient teacher who generously shared his bourbon barrel expertise with artists and as an exceptionally warm and welcoming friend and family member with a dry sense of humor. Was he being serious or having a little fun? You may never have known.

Buddy's sweeping and multitude of careers and interests is a testament to his ability to find joy in all of life. An accomplished athlete, he played football at Southern High School and the University of Tennessee. He then served as regional sales manager for U S Gypsum; renovated historic homes in New Orleans, Chicago, Savannah, and Louisville; and ran Stitch Wizard, a successful embroidery company, with his wife Kathy.

Then there was, in Buddy's own words, the "job that wasn't a job because it was fun" with Angel's Envy. He was an expert woodworker, helping lead the creative process transforming bourbon barrels into art. He loved working with his "crew" at the distillery, talking about barrels with anyone who would listen. Working with bourbon barrels at Angel's Envy was one of the great joys of his life- continuing to work there through August 2024 and talking about bourbon barrels with family and the hospital staff through his final days.

Born to Harold Louis Burgess and Elizabeth Thomas on March 21, 1939, Buddy spent his life nurturing and loving those around him. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 28 years, Kathy Burgess; daughter: Elizabeth Burgess, son-in-law Mark Ford; sister: Susan Bush, "favorite mother in-law": Abbie Creed; adopted brother and sister-in-laws: Reilly and Jan, Tim and Colleen, Kelly and Mary, Pat and Stacie, and Mike and Debbie; and his many nieces and nephews, their spouses, and children who were loved by their "Uncle Buddy."

Kathy would like to extend a special thank you to nieces: Mandie, Denise, Erin, nephew-in-law: Chris, and dear family friend: Lisa, for keeping their critters fed and well cared for during Buddy's hospital stay. And she extends a heartfelt thanks to the entire care team at Baptist East Hospital. His family is eternally grateful for their extraordinary care and compassion in the hospital and hospice.

Buddy's friends and family are invited to celebrate his life and legacy at one of the places Buddy felt right at home, Angel's Envy Distillery (500 E Main St, Louisville, KY 40202).

Saturday, January 18, 2025

2:00-3:30pm - Celebration of Life

3:30-4:00 pm - Memorial Service