Jacqueline Mae (DeMers) Burning of Leicester, MA passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Sunday, June 13th. She has answered the call and joins her husband of 58 years in the arms of her Lord.
Jackie was born in Worcester, MA on March 8, 1935, the daughter of Florence and Ernest Demers and sister to Ernie. Following her graduation from David Hale Fanning Trade School in Worcester, Jackie married the love of her life, Don Burning. She raised four daughters (Cherie, Donna, Kathy and Julie) and then fulfilled a dream by returning to Worcester State College and earning a bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy.
Jackie loved new experiences, whether a novel restaurant, travel destination or entertainment. Creating memories with her children and grandchildren was one of her greatest delights. She could always be counted on to share stories of her family, from both the generations before and after her. She was an active member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV). In her final years, she enjoyed many friendships and activities at the Leicester Senior Center.
Dedicated to her family and friends (and a great ice cream cone) she is remembered by all who that had the pleasure of meeting her as a kind soul that found joy in life’s most simple offerings. It is not unusual to have friends and family describe her as “the nicest person they’ve ever met”.
Heart of our heart. Please hold her close in your memories and your spirit. Long live the beauty and joy that comes through Jackie and onto all of us.
Burial will be in Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent in memory of Jackie to Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Central Massachusetts, 484 Main St Suite 360, Worcester, MA 01608.