Ann Marie Burrola

Ann Marie Burrola, born April 13, 1956, in Arlington, VA, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2024, after bravely battling an aggressive form of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, known as Bulbar ALS, for the past year. Throughout her illness, Ann exhibited remarkable stoicism, often more concerned for others than for herself.

She is survived by her Aunt Sue Breeden, numerous cousins, and many close friends who will deeply miss her. Ann was predeceased by her parents, Arturo and Esther (Christian) Burrola; her beloved brother, Albert; and her longtime cherished friend and companion, Lucinda Ebersole.

Known for her congenial demeanor, dry sense of humor, and unwavering willingness to help others, Ann exemplified dedication and a strong work ethic throughout her life.

Ann led a vibrant and accomplished life. She attended public schools in Herndon, where she emerged as a leader, student-athlete, and musician. Active in student government, she played softball and served as goalie on the field hockey team. She played a pivotal role in forming a Girls Athletic Association to promote gender equity in high school sports and played tuba in the marching band, wind ensemble, and orchestra. Her hard work and intelligence earned her a scholarship to George Washington University, where she graduated with honors in History in May 1980.

In her sophomore year, Ann secured an internship in the Senate office of Senator Edward Kennedy, which quickly evolved into a part-time job. After graduation, she was offered a full-time position as a staff assistant. During Senator Kennedy's presidential campaign in 1979, Ann was promoted to coordinate activities between the campaign, Senate staff, family, and the Secret Service at the Kennedy residence.

During and following her time in the Senate, Ann was an accomplished photographer and owned and operated Ann Burrola Photography from 1982 -2002. As a professional photographer in 1984 she traveled to 85 cities in 87 days as the personal campaign photographer for the Democratic Vice-Presidential nominee, Geraldine A. Ferraro. Ann later embarked on a distinguished career at the Smithsonian Institution beginning as a contract photographer and photo researcher in 1991. She eventually managed and coordinated numerous public programs and exhibitions first at the National Museum of Natural History and then at the National Museum of American History. At the American History Museum, she rose to the position of Senior Project Manager managing a wide variety of exhibition and major building renovation projects before retiring in 2019.

Beyond her professional achievements, Ann remained an accomplished photographer, a collector of art and rare books, a faithful fan of the Washington Nationals, a devoted cat and Labrador dog owner, and a staunch advocate for democracy, freedom, and civil rights. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Services will be private.