Carol Ann Burnham
March 27, 1943 ~ September 6, 2021
Born in:
Stoney Brook, New York
Resided in:
Lawrenceville, Georgia
Carol Ann Burnham of Lawrenceville, Georgia, passed away Monday, September 6, 2021. Carol was born in Stoney Brook, New York on March 27th, 1943.
Carol is preceded in death by husband, Frederick E. Burnham and sons George Burnham and James Burnham. She is survived by her Daughters Deborah Burnham of Middle Island NY, and Ann Cortese of Lawrenceville, Georgia, and son in law John Cortese of Lawrenceville, Georgia; Grandchildren Janine Betz of Ridge, NY, Edward Burnham of Middle Island, NY, James F. Burnham and Amanda Burnham of Mastic Beach, NY.
A memorial to Carol is planned for October and will occur on Long Island, NY at a time and place to be announced.
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the youngest, Carol struck me as so young at 38. She quickly made me feel welcome and a part of the family. Carol and Fred liked their lives out in Ridge and always had some colorful stories to tell. They lived for the moment and enjoyed a good time socializing. I still remember one story Carol would tell about chasing a horse in Port Jefferson that ended up with her getting kicked if I am remembering right? She was always very engaging and had an inexhaustible sense of humor. In her more recent years Carol had a lot of passion for the going’s on in the world and had no problem sharing her views with those that would listen. I very much enjoyed our talks as she kept me informed of the latest goings on.. Although Carol had her health challenges, she trudged forward in spite of them. Ann and I very much tried to keep up with her needs, but Carol had a strong desire to be independent, as much as reality would allow. Carol loved her family very much. She amazed me that while I know she loved and missed her sons George and Jimmy, that she held up a good front. She was strong that way. Her husband Fred of over 30 years died 25 years ago. She missed him dearly but did what she had to without him to move on. I remember how those next years in Wading River where she lived on a nature preserve, nice surroundings, but rugged living for her. Carol supported herself working at a facility in Shoreham, taking care of low functioning adults. Her stories about it were quite graphic and I realized what a unique person she was to endure the unpleasant tasks she had to do. To boot, she worked split shift, 4 in the morning, 4 at night. I don’t know how she stood it, but it is a testament to what a strong person she was. Everyone instantly loved Carol upon meeting her. She was such an extrovert. Carol loved hosting folks at her house and always looked forward to the interaction. She was in her glory in 2013 when Debbie and Jimmy’s respective families came down for Thanksgiving to see her new home and spend some quality time together. It was very rewarding to see her so happy. In closing Ann of course but I too loved her very much. Not having her around has left a big hole in our hearts. We will miss her dearly. God bless you Carol.
Over recent years, I was lucky enough to spend more time with her as she enjoyed her home, loved her backyard by admiring all the nature she could take in from her back porch. She loved watching all the birds feed from the multiple bird feeders, or watching the neighbors’ cats with their litters, or squirrels running around in the yard. Or she just enjoyed people watching from her windows. I was always amazed that no matter where she went she could engage with anyone in a matter of minutes and befriend all. From the hospital attendants who would park her car – she was the “cookie lady” (she would always bring treats for them); to the mailperson, who would literally walk her mail to her front door, to stopping people in the grocery store and sharing a common topic, like the weather. She could even talk the ear off of a waitress/waiter! She was a remarkable lady. She also had an incredible memory – she would share details of things that happened in her childhood, and her vivid accounting made it feel like they happened yesterday.
In addition to all of these wonderful memories, something of recent times that I will always hold dear is her love of music. Whether is was listening to the “Oldies” or sharing stories of her own singing in her younger days or as more recently, whistling (she would do it to help with her breathing exercises). I only heard her a few times, but the melodic tunes she would whistle were incredibly strong, proving she was still a determined woman to regain her strength, and become independent once again.
But sadly, she will sing or whistle no more. Instead she will now sing with the angels above, and we will see her and remember her as we sit and watch nature from our own backyards with every butterfly that crosses our gardens. When one appears, we’ll know she’s visiting and it will surely bring a smile and a fond memory.
Carol, you will be missed by all who were lucky enough to cross your path. Glad you are no longer in pain and hoping you are making the same connections in heaven as you did on earth! I will miss you dearly. Rest in Peace.
My deepest condolences to Ann, John, Debbie and extended families – you were all lucky to be related to her, I was blessed and fortunate to be included. May your Mom be finally at peace being with your Dad, George and Jim.
With my deepest sympathies and in extreme sadness, Donna (Mahon)
Carol’s were the most delightful calls, filled with current events, family, memories, and puppy tales.
Our deepest condolences to Ann, John, Debbie and all their families. She was a force who will leave us all wanting more, and remembering daily… I will miss her terribly, but I know where she is and that she is watching over all her beloved family & friends.
I will see you again someday Carol, but until then, Rest Peacefully in the loving arms of Our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, and may Light Perpetual Shine on you for all eternity….
All our Love,
Karen, Jim and family