Elizabeth Younger "Beth" Burford

On August 1, 2025, Elizabeth "Beth" Younger Burford peacefully left this world at the age of 97 years surrounded by family members who loved and adored her. Born on August 31, 1927, to Bruce and Elizabeth Younger in Madison County, Virginia, Beth was the elder of two sisters, with her beloved sister Ann having preceded her in death.

Beth's journey began in Elon, VA, where she was born to Millard Bruce Younger and Elizabeth Ragland Watts. She dedicated herself to her education, earning her RN degree from the Lynchburg School of Nursing. Beth worked in the emergency room of Lynchburg Hospital until she married Hannon Marshall Burford in 1952. They moved to Newport News, VA, where Hannon built a successful 45-year career as an engineer at the Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company. The couple later moved to Hampton, Virginia, where they raised their two cherished daughters, Ann Burford (John) Jett and Elizabeth "Betsy" Burford (Wendell) Poulsen.

As a devoted stay-at-home mom, Beth poured her love and energy into supporting her family and enriching her community. In 1973, she returned to nursing, touching countless students' lives as a school nurse at Booker, Baron, and Smith Elementary Schools. Following their retirement at age 62, Beth and Hannon embarked on adventurous travels, eagerly embracing life and creating new memories together. After spending 53 wonderful years in the Riverdale neighborhood of Hampton, Beth and Hannon moved in 2007 to The Chesapeake Retirement Home in Newport News. They relished their time together in Independent Living, and then for the next three years Beth's unwavering devotion was clear as she spent every waking moment by Hannon's side after he transitioned into the Memory Support section of the facility.

Beth exemplified community spirit throughout her life. She served as the election chair at her local voting precinct, volunteered at the Charles Taylor Library, beautified her neighborhood as a dedicated member of the Riverdale Garden Club, and for decades, taught sixth-grade Sunday School at First Presbyterian Church in Hampton, VA.

She leaves behind her two daughters, five grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, five granddogs and many friends. The family appreciates the outstanding care and support provided by The Chesapeake staff, especially Cathy, her favorite CNA from the facility, and dear friend Yvonne Bailey, of Concierge Home Care, who was lovingly devoted to her during her last five months of life.

A service honoring Beth's life will be held on Saturday, August 23rd at 2:00 PM, at The Chesapeake Retirement Home, 955 Harpersville Rd., Newport News, in the Chesapeake Room. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice.