Mr. Walter Thomas "Papa Smurf" Burdine

Mr. Walter Thomas “Papa Smurf” Burdine, 74, of Greenville, transitioned on Monday, May 18, 2026, at his residence. Born in Greenville County, he was the son of the late June and Carmelita Lawrence Burdine.

Surviving: his companion, of 25 years, Harriett Bowen, four sons, Rodney Patterson, of Greenville, SC; Lee Burdine, of Piedmont, SC; Jarrard Burdine, of Seattle, WA; and Juanye Burdine, of Jacksonville, FL; three sisters, Rosa (Richard) Josey, Juanita Burdine, and Wilma Wright, all of Greenville, SC; two brothers, Luther Lawrence, and Robert (Cathy) Burdine, all of Greenville, SC; fifteen grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, and a host of other relatives and friends. 

Funeral Services: Saturday, May 30, 2026, 1:00pm, at Watkins Garrett & Woods Mortuary, with interment in Resthaven Memorial Gardens.