Gerald Allen "Jerry" Burley, 62, passed away peacefully in his home Thursday October 8, 2009. Jerry, was a devoted husband, father, family man and friend was loved by all those whose lives he touched and will be dearly missed by many. Though Jerry was born a Yankee in Ohiopyle, PA, he had called Florence home for the last 39 years. Jerry was a big man. It was easy to be intimidated by his size. But those who knew Jerry, if only for a short while, knew the breadth and depth of his intellect and work ethic were far larger then the body could ever be. His life is testament that hard work and effort are rewarded with success. Most who remember Mr. Burley will remember the man whom with his wife and family built Shoney's into a successful business and Florence institution. It is difficult for most people to think of Mr. Burley and not picture him in the restaurant. The restaurant was a big part of Mr. Burley's life, but it wasn't all. Jerry was a decorated Vietnam Veteran. For his valor, duty, and sacrifice in serving our Country, Jerry was awarded both a Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. Jerry was a devoted Christian and was a member and elder of John Calvin Presbyterian Church. His accomplishments and list of superlatives could run much longer: loving husband, father, brother ,and uncle, generous philanthropist, mentor...but we choose to remember the man as he would remember himself - with humility. Jerry is survived by his loving wife, friend and partner of 41 years, Susan Burley; his brothers, William "Bill" Burley, III, Richard "Dick" Burley, and Samuel "Sam" Burley; and his sister, Millicent "Millie" Banks. He was preceded in death by his son, Gerald Allen Burley, Jr., his mother and father, William M. and Mary C. Burley, and his sister Arminda Olive. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM Thursday October 15, 2009 in John Calvin Presbyterian Church. The family will receive friends at the Church immediately after the service. Memorials may be made to McLeod Hospice PO Box 100551, Florence, SC 29502 or John Calvin Presbyterian Church, 2000 Marsh Ave., Florence, SC 29501.