Burma Lounette Millsaps Bellingar of Union Grove, N.C., a beloved figure in her community and a treasured family member, went home to be with Jesus on October 25, 2025, on her 94th birthday, at Wilkesboro Health and Rehabilitation, following a period of declining health. Born on October 25, 1931, in Alexander County, N.C., Burma lived a life filled with love and warmth that touched everyone she encountered.
Burma dedicated her career to the textiles industry and was known for her remarkable skills as a seamstress. Her talent extended beyond her work, as she created an inviting atmosphere wherever she went. Described as loving and warm-hearted, Burma never met a stranger; she had a unique ability to make others feel welcomed and appreciated.
Burma’s journey took her to Alaska, where she lived for 23 years, followed by 16 years in Washington before returning to her roots in North Carolina. She had a deep appreciation for nature and enjoyed clam digging and picking berries at her home in Washington. Her adventures also included hunting elk and moose, as well as salmon fishing in the scenic wilderness of Alaska with her husband Bill.
Throughout her life, Burma was an animal lover, and she was particularly fond of cats. She lovingly raised over 50 cats, always ensuring that they had a nurturing home. Additionally, she found joy in feeding birds and other wildlife, often spending tranquil moments in her gazebo, surrounded by the beauty of nature.
A devoted member of the Baptist faith, Burma had been active in her church community, specifically Central Baptist Church in North Wilkesboro. Her culinary talents revealed themselves in her prowess as a cook, skillfully canning and freezing a variety of fruits, vegetables, and seafood. She also dedicated time to assist her husband, William “Bill” Bellingar, with the Alaska Wildlife Program, engaging with schools, civic groups, and churches to share knowledge and appreciation for wildlife.
Burma leaves behind her beloved husband of over 56 years, William “Bill” Bellingar; two sons, Phil Pope (Annette) of N. Wilkesboro, N.C., and Carroll Pope (Trasie) of Nazaré, Portugal, and Anchorage, Alaska, a granddaughter, Krystal Pope of Oshkosh, Wisconsin; a grandson, Wade Pope, of Oshkosh, Wisconsin; and a great-grandson, Trystan Pope of Pensacola, Florida. Her legacy also includes two brothers, Archie Millsaps (Carol) of Vashti, N.C., and Rev. Ronnie Millsaps (Minnie) of N. Wilkesboro, N.C., along with four sisters, Frankie Hinson of Landis, N.C., Mary Ann Pharr of Statesville, N.C., Lavonne Call of N. Wilkesboro, N.C., and Nancy Branton of Statesville, N.C. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins, all of whom will miss her dearly.
She was preceded in death by her father, Lee Parks Millsaps; her mother, Anna Lou Sprinkle Millsaps; and three siblings, Randy Millsaps, Steve Millsaps, and Maxine Jenkins.
The memory of Burma Millsaps Bellingar will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, marked by her kindness, passion, and an unwavering love for family and friends.
A gathering to celebrate Burma’s life will be held Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 2 to 5 p.m. at Cagney’s Kitchen of Wilkesboro, 1200 Central Street, Wilkesboro, NC 28697. Please wear bright colors to celebrate with us.
Memorial donations may be made in her memory to Iredell County Animal Shelter by clicking here.
Nicholson Funeral Home is honored to serve the Bellingar family.