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Paula Burris Obituary
March 2, 1953 - January 15, 2022
Lake Tapps, Washington - Paula J. Burris, age 68, passed away at home on January 15, 2022, surrounded by family and friends after a courageous battle with cancer. Her family is comforted to know she is now reunited with her husband of 42 years, Byron Burris, who preceded her in death on November 3, 2020. Paula is survived by her three sons, Christopher Burris (Sarah), Jeffrey Burris, and Paul Burris (Leah), three grandchildren, and five sisters, Cindy Johnson, Judy Rudolph, Carol Purcell, Jeanne Moser, and Tina Kelly.
Paula was an incredible woman with a fighting spirit, soft heart, and sense of humor that continued until the end. As an RN, Paula was always at the service of others, being a great advocate for not only her patients but her family and friends as well. During high school (St. Leos, Tacoma, Washington)and college, Paula was the homecoming queen, a varsity cheerleader for Seattle University, and a dedicated student – obtaining her nursing degree from Seattle University. She continued her career in nursing primarily at St. Joseph Medical Center in Tacoma in the intensive care unit where she finally retired after forty years.
Paula had many interests and talents. We can all attest to her culinary skills, as she whipped up many delicious meals and desserts. Paula also loved to travel. After she and Byron retired, they traveled the world together and hit destinations including Tahiti, Australia, Hong Kong and Europe, among numerous other locations.
Most importantly, Paula was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She treasured her children and especially her grandchildren. Nothing made Paula light up more than being surrounded by those she loved. She loved to entertain and was the ultimate hostess.
We will all miss Paula and hope to see her again. Her family extends a heartfelt thanks to the many people who provided comfort and care to Paula during her illness. Due to Covid-19, a service will be held in the spring.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Paula Burris
Kathryn Pellessier Muir
May 9, 2022
I would imagine that Paula's children , siblings , in laws, and grandchildren are imbued with her joyful and generous spirit. She was a classmate of mine at St. Leo's . Always a positive outlook and super smart. I am so sorry for the loss of such a lovely woman.
Mary Burris LaMarche
April 6, 2022
I loved Paula. She married my brother so I gained another sweet sister. She was smart, energetic, and kind. Paula left us all too soon. Gone but not forgotten.
Gena Kreiner
March 13, 2022
I enjoyed working with Paula at St Joseph. She was an amazing person and touched so many lives with her kind words. She always made the patients feel so at ease and new nurses feel welcomed. Many prayers for her family and friends.
Debbie Smith
February 19, 2022
This is Debbie Wilde Smith, Paula's roommate at Seattle U and Matron of Honor at her wedding. I had no idea she was sick. I'm sorryto say we lost touch with each other. She was a fabulous woman and the world is sadder because of her death. Love to her family and friends.
Elsie S.
February 16, 2022
I´m very saddened for the loss of dearest Paula. I worked with her for many years @ St Joes Critical Care. She was a very good nurse with admirable nursing skills, a caring, kind-hearted person, who loves sharing stories about her family. Thanks for your friendship, Paula
Rest In Peace up in the Kingdom of God
Karen greene
February 11, 2022
I'm sorry to hear that she is gone. I will miss her. She was a very nice person to me. I worked in EVS. Rip my friend
Ina Carlisle
February 7, 2022
Paula and I worked together when she first came to St. Joseph Hospital and she was a wonderful person and a great caring nurse then. Please accept my condolences on the loss of your Mother/ Grandmother.
Marianna Burcar
February 4, 2022
So sad to hear about the passing of Paula. She was a wonderful nurse and a mentor who I always looked up to and admired her professional nursing skills and her friendship. Will hold her family in my heart and prayers.
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