Alfred English Obituary

Alfred Burton "Burt" English
September 15, 1942 - July 10, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Alfred Burton "Burt" English, affectionately known to his loved ones as "Poppy," who departed this life on July 10, 2025, at the age of 82.
Born on September 15, 1942, Burt was a proud graduate of Shelbyville Central High School, Class of 1960. He went on to earn a degree in Political Science from Middle Tennessee State University before serving his country with honor in the United States Air Force from 1966 to 1970, stationed in Orlando, Florida. While on Christmas leave in 1969, Burt made a detour from his hometown of Shelbyville to go duck hunting in Little Rock, Arkansas - a decision that would change his life forever. It was there that he met Patricia McCord, the woman who would become the love of his life. They were married later that year, beginning a partnership grounded in deep love, mutual respect, and enduring devotion. Their marriage lasted over 45 years until Patricia's passing on June 8, 2015.
Following his military service, Burt remained in Orlando, where he taught English and coached football at Osceola County High School. After the birth of twins Kevin and Kimberly, Burt made the life-changing decision to enroll in law school, pursuing a dream that would define the rest of his professional life. In 1976, he earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Tennessee School of Law. That same year, he returned to Shelbyville and joined his father, Alfred L. English, in founding English and English Attorneys. Together, they built a trusted law practice rooted in honesty, professionalism, and service to their community. Burt also served as Judge for the City of Shelbyville for 10 years. His calm judgment, fairness, and unwavering commitment to justice earned him the respect of colleagues and citizens alike. Burt was known to many as a charismatic, lovable, and generous man with a huge heart. He had a passion for defending others and was deeply empathetic to anyone in need. His clients, friends, and family knew they could count on him not only for wise counsel but for a good laugh and a warm presence. He had a wonderful sense of humor and made every room brighter just by being in it. Simply put, Burt was fun to be around – and his joy for life was contagious.
He was also an avid sportsman, with a lifelong love for fishing, duck hunting, and dove hunting. A true outdoorsman, Burt was also a committed wildlife conservationist and once served as Tennessee State Chairman for Ducks Unlimited, where he worked to preserve wetland habitats and promote responsible stewardship of the land he so loved.
Burt didn't just enjoy the outdoors - he shared it. He taught countless young people to love nature and respect the art of hunting and fishing, instilling in them not only skill but a deep appreciation for the natural world. Those memories, lessons, and days spent on the water or in the field will live on in generations to come. He had a deep appreciation for SEC athletics - especially football, but also basketball and baseball. Though he loved all SEC sports, he had a special place in his heart for the Vanderbilt Commodores, faithfully cheering them on through every season. He was also a devoted fan of the Atlanta Braves and never missed a chance to support his teams.
In 2014, Burt retired from his legal career to care for Patricia following her cancer diagnosis. His selfless devotion during that time was a powerful reflection of the love and loyalty that defined his life. To his family, he was simply "Poppy." He embraced this role with joy, warmth, and a quiet strength – always ready with encouragement, wisdom, or a gentle smile. He found profound happiness in the lives of his grandchildren and cherished every moment spent with them. He is survived and remembered by his sons Kevin (Shelley Medlin) English and Michael (Kimberly Snyder) English; grandsons, Jackson "Jack" Patrick (Kelsey Williams) English and William "Wes" Birdwell; granddaughters, Ellee Grace English and Anna Katherine English each of whom brought pride and light into Burt's later years, and a host of extended family, friends, former students, clients, and colleagues who will carry his memory forward with admiration, affection, and gratitude.
Burt will be remembered as a man of deep character - humble, principled, and kind. He was a devoted husband, proud veteran, respected attorney, faithful public servant, passionate conservationist, beloved father, and treasured grandfather.
Burt was a member of the Church of Christ and attended at South Side Church of Christ for many years. Friend and former member of South Side Church of Christ Minster, Jeff Smith will be officiating the service.
Family visitation will be held on Sunday, July 13, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., with a memorial service immediately following at 4:00 p.m. A private burial will take place thereafter.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ducks Unlimited or a charity of your choice in Burt's memory. He will be deeply missed, joyfully remembered, and forever loved.