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Virginia Burriss Obituary
Family-Placed Death Notice
BURRISS, Virginia VIRGINIA VAIL BURRISS Virginia Vail Burriss died in her sleep on Thursday, May 5. Known throughout her life as Ginnie, she inspired many with her courage to face life's challenges as well as seizing life's opportunities. She was the daughter of Woody and Annie Hunt Burriss. Ginnie was born in Atlanta on June 4, 1983. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Middle School education at Georgia College & State University and did postgraduate work at North Georgia College & State University, where she received certifications as a middle school social studies teacher and K-12 reading instruction. Ginnie loved her students, the faculty and leadership of Peachtree Middle Charter School, where she taught sixth grade social studies and co-coached cheerleaders. She spent many summers in North Carolina at Camp Crestridge for Girls where she taught swimming and rose to become director of land sports. It was at Crestridge that she found her passion for middle school youth and development. For ten years she worked with the Buckhead YMCA as a soccer coach, referee and swim instructor especially for special education students. She possessed a smile with deep dimples that lit up a room. She was forthright about her seizure disorder and did not let her own medical challenges prevent her from achieving goals she set. Hers was a life well lived. Strengthened by her faith, Ginnie sought ways to encourage youth to discover their God-given gifts through education and extra curricular activities. She firmly believed that God doesn't give you any more than you can handle. Ginnie was a member of All Saints' Episcopal Church, where in childhood she served as an acolyte, loved the youth choirs and participated in youth missions to Ecuador and the southwestern United States. In addition to her parents Ginnie will be greatly missed by her brother, William Burriss of Lexington, KY. Her grandfathers James Mathews Hunt, Sr., and Jerald Wood Burriss, Sr. predeceased her. Her grandmothers Mary Jenkins Hunt of Elberton, GA, and Virginia Vail Robinson of Orlando, Florida, and aunts and uncles Debbie Nowlin, Suzanne Wimmer, Mat Hunt, Howard Jenkins Hunt, Mark Burriss, Craig Burriss and Brian Burriss and numerous cousins and extended family survive her. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made in her memory to either Camp Crestridge for Girls (Camp Crestridge Alumnae and Friends / P. O. Box 22038 / Lexington, KY 40522-2038), Ronald McDonald House of Yale-New Haven ((501 George Street / New Haven, CT 06311), the Metro Atlanta YMCA (100 Edgewood Avenue NE, Suite 1100 / Atlanta, GA 30303) or Caringbridge.com. A memorial service will be Monday, May 9 at 1:00 pm, at All Saints' Episcopal Church, 634 West Peachtree Street, with a reception following in Ellis Hall of the church.
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Memories and Condolences
for Virginia Burriss
Karen Mayer Johnston
May 3, 2022
I remember Ginny from starting a brownie troop together with her Mom. She was a sweet little girl - a direct reflection of her loving parents, Annie and Woody whom I was fortunate to become acquainted with.
Kathy Lee
May 3, 2019
Woody, Annie and William,
Please Know We Are Thinking Of and Praying For Y'all Especially Today! May You All Feel God's Love and Comfort! Hugs To You Three!
Love,
Les and Kathy Lee
Eddie Cole
July 6, 2014
Annie, I was deeply saddened upon learning of the loss of your beloved daughter. Hers was truly a life well-lived and I know Heaven is a brighter place today! Deepest sympathy!
Kathy Lee
May 3, 2012
Woody, Annie and William,
We think of and pray for you often asking God to hold you in His Loving Arms. May you feel His Love, Comfort, Mercy and Peace daily. We miss Ginnie, Howard and Grandmary very much!
Know We Love You!
Les and Kathy
Janet Welch Atkinson
February 12, 2012
I was so sorry to hear of Ginnie's death. It is so hard to let go of a love one, but know that she is with God and singing praises. I never knew Ginnie, but I know she had a great mom.
Carl Keller
May 27, 2011
Dear Annie & Woody: God has strange timing for us, and I have long since stopped trying to figure out his plan. I just came across Ginnie's obituary, and had to just stop and take a breath. First I am very sorry in your loss, and cannot even imagine the emotions that must go along with it. Secondly however, I would have known, without ever reading a few of the comments written here, what a wonderful person she must have been if only because of the two of you. You and your family remain in my thoughts and prayers, and I am sure she is rejoicing with her Grandfather and Uncle Howard. God Bless you all. Carl
John V. Bond
May 25, 2011
Annie, I just learned of the death of your precious daughter. I am so sorry. I pray that GOD will give you peace.
Linda Lorick
May 25, 2011
To the Burriss Family-
Unfortunately, I just learned of Ginnie's passing and I want to extend my deepest sympathy. I had the pleasure of working with Ginnie at Montgomery and we had many laughs together. She will truly be missed.
Ms. L
May 24, 2011
I am sorry for your loss.
Amy knapp branca
Teacher - Chamblee high
Kathy Roberts
May 19, 2011
Dear Woody and Annie, I wanted to let you know how much Ginnie meant to my daughter Emma Pattison. Ginnie swam with Emma at the YMCA in the Adaptive Swim program. When I first saw her, she seemed so familiar. Then she introduced herself and told me that she had been in the youth group at All Saints when Emma was just a baby. What a small world. She encouraged Emma in swimming and always greeted her with a hug and a high five. Emma loved Coach Ginnie and would swim longer and harder for her! Our prayers are with you all and we feel blessed to have known her and loved her.
Student at Peachtree
May 18, 2011
Ms. Burriss was a wonderful teacher. She made social studies fun and exciting. I will never forget what you taught me.
Stephanie
May 18, 2011
It's so sad to see such a young face in the obituary. Virgina was a very beautiful young lady that seemed capable to brighten up any room she stepped into. From her life story, though way too short, it's obvious that she was a very determined, accomplished, caring, selfless, and loving individual. I pray your precious memories with her and of her brings you much comfort! Isaiah 41:13.
Sharon Barnhart
May 16, 2011
Woody & Annie, I'm so sorry to hear this. When Thomas told me, he described Ginnie as "the sweetest person ever." Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Ann
May 15, 2011
I'm just another mom...with a daughter Ginnie's age...and cannot imagine the grief you are experiencing. I saw her beautiful face in the AJC and saddened to read of her death. Sounds like she really enjoyed life with enthusiasm and she obviously touched alot of lives over the years. Though you will miss her forever, just think of the seeds she planted in many young lives and the joy which carried her day by day. My prayers are with the family.
Wilma Hipps
May 14, 2011
Dearest Annie,
Having been out of town, I learned of Ginny's death belatedly. It was the picture of a beautiful young woman with a radiant smile that prompted me to read the article about her. When I discovered that Ginny was your precious daughter, the sadness I felt is indescribable. The world was surely a far brighter place when she was here, and a dimmer one since she has gone. How I regret having only words to offer you and her family.
Wilma
C Williams
May 14, 2011
May the God of all comfort grant your family peace at this time. (Psalms 23:4)
May 14, 2011
It with the deepest sympathy that I offer my condolences. Ginnie was always a kindhearted and honest person.
Rita Hardy
May 13, 2011
Annie -
I pray that God will grant you, "the peace of understanding."
My prayers are with you and your family.
L M
May 13, 2011
My condolences to the Burriss family. May the God of all comfort help you in your time of grief. (2 Cor 1:3,4)
Jeff McCord
May 13, 2011
Annie & Woody:
I am so sorry to hear about Ginnie. My heart sank when I saw her name and was breaking as I read the obituary. I cannot imagine how difficult this has been for you and your family. You have my prayers that the peace and grace of God be with you, now more than ever.
Ayla Watts
May 12, 2011
That was my teacher at peachtree i am in 6th grade and i am so sad about everyone at peachtree will miss you ms.burriss
John Hassell
May 12, 2011
Annie and Woody,
Barbara and I were sorry to hear the news of Ginnie's passing. We extend sympathy to you and all your family. Our prayers and thoughts are with you. May God's grace comfort you.
Sincerely,
Barbara & John
Erin Walton
May 12, 2011
I've known Ginnie since our days at Montgomery Elementary. She was always a sweet and caring person. I send my deepest condolences. She was truly loved by many!
Mike Heron
May 12, 2011
Annie:
So very sorry to learn of this tragic loss. I didn't realize that Ginnie was your daughter when I started reading today's obituary, and when it mentioned you as her Mom, my heart grew very heavy. When I first met you in 1988, in New York, your precious child was only about four years old. There were several meetings over the ensuing year where you had to rush home or at least call, to check in with your daughter. Although I never met her, having remembered your dutifulness and having read the wonderful comments about Ginnie's zeal, I feel a connection. Our heartful sympathies to you and your family during this sad time.
Mary Lee Poss
May 12, 2011
With deepest sympathy to each of you. My heart breaks for you and I pray that God will give you the strength to face each new day. Keeping you in my prayers. Best regards, Mary Lee Poss
Karen Bass
May 12, 2011
Mr. and Mrs. Burris,
Your beautiful daughter was my daughter's teacher this year. We have been devasted by her loss and can not imagine what you are experiencing. She was loved by her students. Thank you for sharing her with us!
Karen and Maggie Bass
Sarah Rutland
May 12, 2011
I am so sorry for your loss.
Peter Banks
May 12, 2011
Annie: It is difficult to imagine the pain of your loss but I want you to know you and your family are in my prayers.
Peace
Daryl Adams
May 12, 2011
Hi Annie, I was deeply saddened to hear of your loss. I can only image your grief and sorrow. I truly hope you can soon find peace. I know that with the support of family and friends it is possible. Lean on your friends. Take one day at a time. And when you are ready, let laughter come back into your life. It is OK to smile and laugh again. I learned that the hard way. I'll be thinking of you during this difficult time. If you can, enjoy this photo I took. It somehow seems appropriate. Daryl Adams - [email protected]
Earl Butler
May 11, 2011
Annie, My condolences to you and your family. I cannot imagine losing a child, but it seems like your daughter was a beautiful young lady (kind of like her mother) :o)
Marsha Roepe
May 11, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Edward, Marsha and Brent Roepe
From Ms. Burris Homeroom Class
Karen Johnston
May 11, 2011
Annie, Woody, and William,
My deepest sympathy...I cannot image what it must be like to have lost a child and I am greatly saddened to hear about Ginnie having known her at Montgomery Elementary and our little girl scout troop. I have always been fond of her and your family and will always remember Ginnie as having a glow about her - definitely a reflection on all of you. God Bless you and let me know if there is anything I can do for you.
Karen Johnston (and for Jenni Johnston Lang, and Todd Johnston)
May 11, 2011
So saddened by the loss of such a great person. Ginnie was a beautiful person, and the lives she touched are better because of her.
My love and prayers are with you during this time. Love you all.
Kristina Graham
May 10, 2011
I just received the news. I grew up with Ginnie, at Montgomery, and Chamblee. She was always so sweet. I'll never forget her smile. All my blessings to her family and friends.
Don and Kathy Maxwell
May 10, 2011
Annie and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. From reading the entries in this Guest Book, it is very obvious that Ginnie was an extraordinary young lady.
May 10, 2011
Ginnie's radiant smile and quick humor will be greatly missed. I am so saddened by her passing and I offer my prayers for all who loved her.
Laura Knee
May 10, 2011
Ginnie was such a sweetheart; kind, unassuming, and had the purest intentions. I'm so sad at her passing and offer my deepest condolences and prayers to her family. She was a wonderful person and lives on in each life that she touched, no matter how brief.
May 10, 2011
Annie: I am so, so sorry to learn the news of Virginia's death. As a father of two young adults, I cannot begin to put myself in your shoes. Strength will come from the love and caring of all of those around you.
Steven Spalding (Louisville KY)
May 10, 2011
Woody, Annie, William, I just learned of Ginnie's passing. Hugs and love and prayers aplenty are sent your way. Your daughter, your sister was such an incredible light and inspiration to so many. Best wedding date I ever had too! I consider it a blessing to have known Ginnie. You are all in my prayers. Celebrate life, every precious moment with His peace, light, love and hope.
“I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst.” [Jn. 6:35]
Becky Lam
May 9, 2011
Annie and Family,
Just want you to know I'm praying for you during this very tough time...that you will feel God's loving arms surrounding you in the coming days.
In Christian love,
Cindy Cromer
May 9, 2011
"I want to teach my students how to live this life on earth, to face its struggles and its strife and to improve their worth.
Not just the lesson in a book, or how the rivers flow, but to choose the proper path, wherever they may go.
To understand eternal truth, and know right from wrong, and gather all the beauty of a flower and a song.
For if I help the world to grow in wisdom and grace, then I feel that I have won and I have filled my place.
And so I ask your guidance, God that I may do my part, for character and confidence and happiness of heart"--Anonymous
Thank you, Ginnie, for teaching.
May 9, 2011
Dear Annie, I am sorry to hear about your daughter. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Debbie Leverett Garing
Cindy Cofer Rogers
May 9, 2011
Annie & Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. My arms are around you with support and love. God bless all.
Anne Troutman Brown
May 9, 2011
Annie,
I just happened to read Ginnie's obit because she was such a beautiful young lady and I wondered what happened - and then I saw where she was yours and my heart broke for you and your family. What a wonderful young lady you raised and I pray that God will wrap his loving arms around all of you at this time.
I'll never forget you being my Village Director at CC when I was a counselor -I'm so glad Ginnie got to experience that wonderful place - and they got to have her!
Please know that you all will continue to be thought of and prayed for daily.
Ashley Bryant
May 9, 2011
I send my heartfelt prayers to the family.
Ashley Bryant
Chamblee High School c/o 2000
libby eavenson
May 9, 2011
Annie & family,
So sorry to hear about your daughter. I can't imagine how hard this would be. Know that I care and that my thoughts and prayers for you and your family will be there. Love you, Libby Webb Eavenson
Martine Flanagan
May 9, 2011
Annie,
My heart goes out to you and your family in your time of profound sorrow. May your devoted family and friends, as well as the knowledge that you provided her a fine life, give you some small comfort.
Pam and Nancy Williford (Perlick and Stangle)
May 9, 2011
Annie and family, please accept our very heartfelt sympathy for the loss of Ginnie. We are so sorry. Please let us know if there is anything we can do.
May 9, 2011
Annie, deepest sympathy to you and your family. Know that all of you are in my thoughts and prayers. Sheila O'Neal (Augusta, GA)
Karen Richardson
May 9, 2011
Ginnie was a most incredible girl! I will never forget her smile. She was a joy to be around and inspired everyone who knew her. My deepest condolences to her family. I was touched to know that she had become a teacher. What a gift the world has lost, but a treasure to remember.
Karen Richardson, Registrar
Chamblee Charter High School
Gwyn Toole
May 9, 2011
Annie,
I'm here if you need an ear or just a friend to sit by you. My deepest sympathy goes to you and your family during this time of loss.
Paula Flanagan
May 9, 2011
Annie,
My heartfelt sympathy on the loss of your beloved daughter, Ginnie. My prayers are with you and your family.
John & Sherie Fuchko
May 9, 2011
"Please accept our deepest sympathy and heartfelt prayers in this incredibly difficult time. There is nothing harder than loosing a child. May God grant you and your family strength."
Patsy Rathbone
May 9, 2011
Anna and family you can know that I know your every heart broken feeling at this time, lean heavy on the everlasting strength that God will give to you through this time in your life. I am a mother with out her (only) child and time is the only gift in you favor as you strive to heal. I will lift you in my prayers for renewed strength day by day. May God bless you and family. Patsy D. Rathbone Elberton, Ga.
May 9, 2011
Annie,
My deepest sympathy goes to you and your family during this time of loss. My prayers will be with you and your family. Ramona Aune - Georgia Health Sciences University.
Ross Greene
May 9, 2011
Woody and Annie....Ginnie was obviously a wonderful young lady guided by committed, loving and very capable parents and further led by God. Her gifts of love, encouragement, knowledge and support will continue to guide the lives of the countless students she touched in a very meaningful way. I pray the the broken heartedness of your loss will be mended by our loving and sovereign God. Lynne and I pray a supernatural peace will encompass you and sustain you in these tough days. God bless you my friend.
Barbara Morgan
May 9, 2011
Please accept my deepest sympathy in the death of your precious daughter. Long will she live in your hearts.
May 9, 2011
With deepest sympathy,
Janice Richardson, Augusta Technical College
Patti Pitoscia
May 9, 2011
Ginnie is fondly remebered at St. Martin's Episcopal School for her easy going character, kindness toward others, and deep dimples. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends. You have our deepest sympathy.
Patti Pitoscia
Lisa Palmer
May 9, 2011
May special memories and the outpouring of support be of comfort to you during this time.
Connie Brown Worley
May 9, 2011
Annie,
Kathy and Lester Lee have shared your sorrow with me. Ginnie looked like you with that pretty smile and dimples. It sounds as if she was a fabulous young woman who embraced life and shared her spirit with those around her.
May God keep you wrapped in loving arms.
Connie Brown Worley
Kathy Wells
May 9, 2011
My sincerest sympathy goes to the family of Ginnie Burris. Ginnie will always be dear to my heart. She was a ray of sunshine to us all. Please take comfort in knowing that Ginnie was truly loved and a wonderful gift from God. I thank God for allowing me to know and love Ginnie B. I am trusting that God will continue to give you peace and comfort at this time.
Kathy Wells
Ginnie's Kindergarten Teacher at Montgomery ES
Kathy Lee
May 9, 2011
Woody, Annie and William,
Words cannot begin to convey how sad we are with you.
Sending you our Love, Sympathy and Many Prayers,
Les and Kathy
Mary Margaret Garrett
May 9, 2011
Annie, thank you for sharing Ginnie with me at ARC several weeks ago. You told me how proud you were of her and how much she had accomplished. Ginnie will always be the brightest star shining in the sky. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
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