Edith M. Burke, 91, of Worcester died Sunday, July 27th in Notre Dame Long Term Care Facility. Her husband of 40 years, William F. Burke died in 2023. She leaves her sister-in-law, Ann Marie Doyle and her husband, Joe; her brother-in-law, Joseph A. Burke and his wife, Annette; and 12 nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sister, Joan Tamulevich.
Born in Lithuania the daughter of the late Anthony and Constance (Kucevich) Tamulevich, Edith immigrated to the United States with her mother when she was 3 years old. She graduated from the former High School of Commerce and then became a nun in the Poor Sisters of Jesus Crucified in Brockton, who had active ministries in caring for the poor, education and healthcare. Edie initially taught kindergarten and first grade at a nearby parish school and later worked as a nurse in a nursing home and then in a nearby hospital. Edie wore a white nun’s habit and veil and was extremely efficient in performing her nursing assignments and her nursing colleagues dubber her “The White Tornado.” She left the order after 18 years to care for her ailing mother. Then, she worked as a nurse for the City of Worcester for more than 20 years at the former Belmont Home for the Aged.
Edie was a gifted artist. She loved gardening, dogs, and her beloved Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots. She was ecstatic when she could play golf at Leicester Country Club with her lady golfing friends. She also enjoyed family get togethers and will be remembered for her outgoing and colorful personality. Edith was a member of Our Lady of the Angels Church.
The family wishes to thank Ilda Johnston, a neighbor and Suzanne Turcotte, a nurse and friend, who faithfully helped Edie during her years of declining health, as well as the staff of Christopher Heights Assisted Living and Notre Dame Long Term Facility for their compassionate care.
Her graveside service will be held on Friday, August 1st in Worcester County Memorial Park, 217 Richards Avenue, Paxton at 12:00 p.m. in Section Heritage II. O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue is assisting the family with arrangements.