Scott Burch, Jr.

Scott Burch Jr., age 71, peacefully departed this life on Monday, July 27, 2026 in his sleep. Born in 1954, in Salem, New Jersey to Doris Lueva Southerland and Scott Burch, Sr, Scott was raised by his mother and stepfather Eddie Boykin.

Scott lived a life distinguished by faith, service, perseverance, and an unwavering devotion to his family. His life was a testament to hard work, compassion, and the enduring power of love.

A gifted musician from an early age, Scott developed a lifelong love for playing the drums. At the age of eight, he served as the assistant drummer for the William Gospel Chorus. By thirteen, he was the drummer for the Atlantic Coast Foreign Mission Convention Choir of the Church of the Living God. Throughout his life, Scott used his musical talents to glorify God and inspire others through worship.

Scott was a graduate of Penns Grove High School, Class of 1972, and he attended Gloucester County College.  He earned a Bachelor of Business Communication from York University in 2008.  He was also an exceptional athlete whose accomplishments in track and field became well known throughout the tri-state region of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. His remarkable athletic ability earned him lasting recognition, and to this day he continues to hold the high hurdle record at Gloucester County College in Sewell, New Jersey.

After college, Scott proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam era and was stationed at Fort Dix, New Jersey as part of the 9th Infantry Division. Following his honorable military service, he pursued his passion for construction by establishing the Big Daddy Construction Company, where his craftsmanship, professionalism, and strong work ethic earned him the respect and admiration of clients, coworkers, and friends.

In 2007, while working in Dubai, Scott met the love of his life, Istisaroh Samid Burch, (Zara).  Their relationship began with laughter, as Zara affectionately teased Scott, insisting that he was "too old" for her and often calling him an "old man." Undeterred, Scott's kindness, patience, and unwavering devotion gradually won her heart. Their friendship blossomed into a lasting love, and they were united in marriage in Doha, Qatar, in 2008. Together they built a beautiful life centered on faith, love, and family. They traveled the world, creating cherished memories together before welcoming their beloved daughter, Doris Katiyan Burch, in 2014. Later, they returned to the United States and made their home in Elkton, Maryland, where they were warmly embraced by neighbors who quickly became like family.

 Not long after settling there, Scott discovered that Elkton held a special place in his family's history. It was there, at the historic Wedding Chapel, that his parents, Eddie Boykin and Doris L. Boykin, had been united in marriage many years earlier. Scott often reflected on the significance of this discovery.  To him, it was a beautiful reminder of God's guiding hand and a full-circle moment that made Elkton not just the place they lived, but truly the place they were meant to call home. 

Scott was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Doris L. Boykin and Scott Burch, Sr., his Stepfather, Eddie Boykin, and his brother Nathan Burch.

He leaves to cherish his precious memory his devoted wife, Istisaroh Samid Burch; his beloved daughter, Doris Katiyan Burch; his brother, John Burch of West Palm Beach, Florida; his sister, Mary L. Woody of Bear, Delaware; a host of nieces and nephews; extended family members; treasured friends; and his lifelong best friend, Wilson, whose friendship was one of the greatest blessings of his life, and all whose lives were blessed by knowing him.

Above all else, Scott was a devoted husband, a loving father, a faithful servant of God, and a family man. He loved his wife, Zara, his daughter, Doris, his church, and his family with all his heart. His greatest joy was found not in his many accomplishments, but in the time, he spent with those he loved. His faith guided his life, his generosity touched countless hearts, and his quiet strength inspired everyone who knew him.

Scott will be remembered as a proud veteran, accomplished businessman, gifted musician, outstanding athlete, devoted Christian, and loyal friend. More importantly, he will be remembered as a man of integrity, humility, compassion, and unwavering love. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched, the family he cherished, and the example he set for future generations.

Though our hearts are saddened by his passing, we rejoice in the memories he leaves behind and find comfort in God's promise of eternal life. Scott's life was well lived, his race well run, and his love will remain in our hearts forever.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."
Matthew 25:23

A viewing will be held on Friday, August 7, 2026 from 10-10:45 am at Pilgrim Baptist Church, 1325 Barksdale Rd., Newark, DE 19711. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 am at Pilgrim Baptist Church. Interment to take place at a later date at Delaware Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery in Bear, Delaware.

In lieu of flowers, any assistance that could be provided to Zara and Doris during this time would be greatly appreciated.

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