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Carolyn Hope Ainley Burris Hope A. Burris, 83, went peacefully home to her Heavenly Father on January 25, 2012, in Alturas, California. Though the family lived in Elderwood, CA, she was born Carolyn Hope Ainley on Mother's Day, May 13, 1928, in Los Angeles, CA. Hope was the 4th of 5 children born to Ralph and Jessie Ainley. She grew up in Elderwood on the family ranch, Echo Cove Ranch. Hope graduated from Elderwood Elementary School, Woodlake High School, attended College of the Sequoias, and Fresno State University. Hope graduated from Whitworth College in Spokane, WA with a Bachelor's Degree in Home Economics. She received her California teaching credential from San Jose State. Hope taught school, mostly kindergarten, for over 30 years, retiring in 1992. In 1957 she married John W. Burris in Woodlake, CA, and they enjoyed over 54 years of marriage, living in Ventura, CA, Stockton, MO, Woodlake, CA, and for the last 8 years Alturas, CA. Two daughters, Melodee and Carolyn were born to John and Hope. Hope trusted Christ as her Savior at a young age, and lived her life to show her faith. Hope was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and a gifted schoolteacher. Hope loved teaching and went above and beyond the requirements. She wanted every child to have a good 1st experience with school. Before each school year she got acquainted with her new students and visited their homes to meet the families. In her years in Woodlake, Hope was a member of the Woodlake Presbyterian Church, sang in the choir, the hand bell choir, served on the Deacon and Elder Board and in other capacities. Hope was the first to greet new people, and make them feel welcome. Hope was a giver and only a phone call away for anyone in need. After her move to Alturas, Hope joined the Faith Baptist Church, where she met many new friends. Hope was preceded in death by her parents Ralph and Jessie Ainley and an older brother David. Her survivors are her husband John W. Burris of Alturas, CA, daughters Melodee and Willis Chapman of Dyersburg, TN, Carolyn and John Hughes of Alturas, CA. Brothers Dick and Laverne Ainley of Colorado Springs, CO, Frank and Barbara Ainley of Woodlake, CA, and sister Mary Agnes Ainley of Exeter, CA. Hope leaves her seven beloved grandchildren: Nathan, Ben, and Hannah Chapman, Bethany Chapman Mayo and husband Josh, Jacob and John Hughes, Janel Hughes and fiancé Tanner Godfrey. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and her two dedicated caregivers Bonnie and Clare. Memorial services were held on Saturday January 28 at Faith Baptist Church with Pastor Rod Bodmer officiating.
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3 Entries
Hope Burris was one of the most caring teachers I've ever met. Her students meant all to her and she made sure that they learned that. Her cheerful attitude helped many of us. May her family recall all the great memories she made with them. God bless you, Hope, good-by and save us a place in Heaven with you.
Anne Bennett
February 2, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with the family of Mrs. Burris. She was my kindergarten teacher and I have very fond memories of her. What a beautiful soul and a heartwarming teacher. Thank you Mrs. Burris for seeing inside the hearts of all the children you touched.
Lolita
February 2, 2012
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Donna Ramirez
February 2, 2012
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