Lena Burke, 81
Dateline: Norton, MA
Lena (Albanese) Burke, Age 81, of Norton passed away in the comfort of her home, surrounded by her loving family on Sunday. April 10, 2016 She was the beloved wife of Thomas E. Burke. to whom she was wed on April 28, 1962.
Born in New York City, New York on May 18, 1934, she was a loving daughter of the late Giuseppe and Concetta (Catanese) Albanese. She grew up and was educated in New York City.
A resident of Norton for the past 48 years, she had previously resided in the Roslindale neighborhood of Boston. Prior to retiring, Mrs. Burke had been employed for 18 years for the Norton School system and retired as head cook at the J.C. Solmonese Elementary School in Norton.
Lena’s favorite times by far were those spent in the presence of her adoring family; She enjoyed knitting for her children and grandchildren, and cooking and baking. She will always be remembered for her exceptional Italian cooking skills, especially for her baked lasagna and Italian cookies.
In addition to her beloved husband of nearly 54 years, she is survived by devoted children Joseph T. Burke and his wife Pamela of Cumberland, RI, Sheryl A. Harnedy and her husband Daniel of Norton, William P. Burke and his wife Elizabeth of Norton, and Lisa M. Murphy and her husband Brian of Norton. She was the dear sister of Josephine Vigilante of New York and was pre-deceased by 6 siblings. Her cherished 10 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews also survive her.
Her funeral, to which relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend, will be held on Friday, April 15th at 8:45 A.M. from the Sherman & Jackson Funeral home, 55 North Main St., Mansfield followed by a Mass of Christian burial celebrated at 10:00 A.M. in St. Mary’s Church, 1 Power St., Norton. Burial will follow at Cedar Knoll Cemetery in East Taunton.
Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, April 14th from 5:00-8:00 P.M. at the Sherman & Jackson Funeral Home. Donations in Lena’s memory may be made to the Lupus Foundation of New England, 40 Speen St. #101, Framingham, MA 01701.
To send her family a message of condolence, please visit www.shermanjackson.com