Dr. Rosa Pearl Burnham

Dr. Rosa Pearl Burnham was called to her Heavenly home on Saturday, September 2, 2023, from her home in Chester, VA. Born December 27, 1955, to the late Steve Linwood and Alberta Corine Burnham, Rosa Pearl took pride in what she called making memories. Most of these memories were made with her children, son Brion Dominique who preceded her in death, and daughters Dr. Kristine Jones-Pasley (George) and Ericka Jones. Additional memory-makers include her three grandchildren, TreVeon S. Porchia, Dominique B. Saunders, and Jasmyn S. Saunders. We cannot forget her siblings and their spouses who also provided much entertainment and stories passed from holiday to holiday, Deacon Bernard Burnham, Sr (Elder Ivy), Mr. Richard Burnham (Diane) who preceded her in death, Ms. Gloria “Smoke” Burnham, and Mr. Chris Burnham (Deneen).

One area of memory-making for Rosa Pearl included educational endeavors. She completed a doctorate in Executive Leadership from the University of Charleston at age 57! This appetite for education spilled over to her daughters as they continued their educational journeys and with Rosa Pearl’s students at various colleges and universities.

Rosa Pearl took pride in being one of 56 grandchildren and made sure that everyone knew that she was the favorite grandchild. However, a very special cousin, Elder T. Jeffery Conley, took exception to that notation. The conversation of who was the favorite grandchild was held every Christmas!

In addition to her daughters, son-in-love, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, Rosa Pearl will be missed by her goddaughter, Crystal C. Cooper; aunts Ms. Shirley Conley, Missionary Audrey R. Cornick, Mrs. Jeanette Lassiter, and uncle, Deacon Reuben Williams (Jackie).