Timothy Lee Burgess

Timothy Lee Burgess, (71) Tim or Sir Tim as he became known to many, was born in Louisiana. While he lived in a few different states and hitchhiked a few roads over the years, he was a long-time resident of the Austin area. He passed away peacefully on August 25, 2026.

For decades, Timothy made his living as a professional waiter, he enjoyed being of service and making sure that people ate a calling that allowed his warm personality and gift for conversation to shine. He spent the last twenty years of his career at IHOP, a place that held a deeply special room in his heart—so much so that it served as the joyful venue for his wedding to his beloved wife, Catherine. Beyond his dedication to his work, Timothy was a deeply creative and artistic soul. He found great joy and expression in music, playing his guitar, singing, and songwriting. An avid reader with a sharp mind, he also expressed his view of the world through his poetry. Timothy is now reunited with his cherished spouse, Catherine Payes-Burgess, and their beloved son, Lee Austin Burgess, who preceded him in death. His memory will be kept alive by those who survive him: his daughter, Lauren Johnson; his sons, Adam Burgess and Walker Burgess; his brothers, Dan Burgess and Steve Burgess; and his sister, Tina Middleton. He will be deeply missed by his family, his former colleagues, and the countless regular customers whose days he brightened over a cup of coffee. Tim worried about the homeless and the hungry and always wanted to make sure that people were fed. In honor of that we ask that donations in his memory be made to a church that works on the frontlines with people experiencing or in danger of being homeless. Memorial service to be held: October 17, 2026, 1:30pm Sunrise Community Church 4430 Menchaca Rd. Austin Texas 78745