Earline Beloney Burks

Earline Beloney Burks, born on June 9, 1939, in Donaldsonville, Louisiana, was a woman of incredible strength, creative intelligence, and empathetic understanding. She was a beacon that illuminated the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Earline was a tireless advocate for equality and independence, values she imparted not only to her students during her distinguished career as a Middle School Teacher with the New Orleans Public Schools but also to all those who crossed her path.

She graduated from Walter L. Cohen and completed her Bachelor and Masters +30 at Southern University in Baton Rouge. She spent a year teaching at her high school alma mater before settling at Thurgood Marshall Magnet Middle School.

A gifted educator, Earline's razor-sharp intellect and wit was only matched by her generous spirit. She retired in 2005, after dedicating several decades to the noble profession of teaching. Her commitment to education was recognized twice when she was awarded Teacher of the Year, a testament to her passion and dedication. Earline's leadership qualities were further demonstrated when she was voted as Union Representative for 20 consecutive years. Her creative talents also shone brightly in her literary endeavors, with two of her short stories published in Essence Magazine. In her leisure time, Earline loved reading and traveling, forever seeking knowledge and new experiences.

Earline was a devout Baptist and lived her faith in a way that was both inspiring and humbling. She gave generously to her church, both in terms of her time and financial contributions. Earline's hope and faith were unwavering, and she was a living testament to God's grace.

She is survived by her beloved daughter, Michele Beloney, and cherished grandson, Ahmad Shabalala. She also leaves behind her sister, Alvery Rodney, her nephew, Isaac Rodney, her nieces, Staci and Traci Rodney. She has several great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph Baloney, III and Leana Beloney Alexis. She also has extended family. Earline's light continues to shine brightly in the lives of those she loved and those who loved her.

Proverbs 31:25-26 She is clothed with strength and dignity and she laughs without fear of the future. She opens her mouth with wisdom and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.

Earline's Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, October 23, 2026 at St. Mark Baptist Church,132 Marquez St, Mount Airy, LA 70076; visitation for 9:00AM followed by the service for 10:00AM. Entombment St. John Memorial Gardens, LaPlace, LA.

Final care and professional services entrusted to Treasures of Life Funeral Services, 315 E. Airline Hwy., Gramercy, LA 70052.

"When someone you love becomes a memory, that memory becomes a TREASURE"