Leona "Lee" G. Burhoe

Leona “Lee” Burhoe, 95, of Meriden and former longtime Southington resident, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 5th at her home. She was the loving wife of the late Ronald Edward Burhoe who were married for over 50 years.

Lee was born on June 9, 1930, in Pittsfield, MA to the late Harold and Pauline (Robinson) Gale. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Nutrition from UMASS Amherst and worked as the Dietary Manager at the Bradley Memorial Hospital for over 20 years. Lee was an active member of the First Baptist Church in Southington for nearly 70 years, where she loved singing in the church choir—first alongside her husband Ron, and later with her daughter and granddaughter. She also served on various boards and committees, as her church family held a very special place in her heart.

Leona was a gracious and loving woman of faith whose life centered around family. Her home reflected the love she carried for them—its walls and shelves filled with photos and memories that told the story of a life devoted to those she cherished most. She led by quiet example, showing that kindness, grace, and love are the most enduring legacies one can leave behind.

She was known for her gentle personality, warm smile, and quick wit that kept everyone on their toes. She always enjoyed family time—playing card games, building puzzles, sitting by the water at Otis Reservoir near their summer cottage, and traveling together. She had a nurturing green thumb and a deep love of flowers, especially her beautiful violets and flowering cactus plants. For many years, she looked forward to swimming at the YMCA with her group of friends, continuing to do so until she was 94. Above all else, Lee was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, gigi, sister and friend who brought joy to everyone around her.

She is survived by four daughters and their families: Susan Vess, Linda and Gary Lamy, Pamela and John Famiglietti, and Donna Burhoe and Nanci; four grandchildren, Sharlene and Natacha Kerelezja, Benjamin and Melissa Lamy, Emily Lamy and Andrew, and Stefanie and Josh Letizio; and four great-grandchildren, Noah, Sage, Wesley, and Hudson. She is also survived by many loved ones.

In addition to her husband Ron, Lee was predeceased by her great-granddaughter, Charlie Leighton Lamy, son-in-law, William Vess, and many beloved relatives.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Lee’s memory may be made to the First Baptist Church of Southington, CT, (https://www.fbcsouthington.org/), or to Hope After Loss of North Haven, CT, (https://www.hopeafterloss.org) in memory of her great-granddaughter, Charlie Lamy.

A Celebration of Life church service followed by a reception will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 15th at the First Baptist Church, 581 Meriden Ave, Southington, CT. Plantsville Funeral Home has been entrusted with handling the arrangements. For online condolences and directions, please visit www.plantsvillefuneralhome.com.