Birth date: Oct 11, 1917 Death date: Sep 6, 2010
Burnett, Helen E., 92, quietly passed away on September 6th 2010 surrounded by loved ones singing her favorite song, Amazing Grace. Having been blind since 1974, Helen faced death the same way she lived life-courageously. Born Oct Read Obituary
Dear Burnett Family, It is with great sadness that we have learned of Helen's passing. She was a joy to be around at Lighthouse of Pinellas. I was a volunteer in some of Helen's classes. Before that, me and my husband both were students. Helen always was sweet, kind and loving to us. We will miss her terribly. God Bless you all,prayers and love, Sharon and Morry La Tour
Each year, in December, I will remember Mrs. Burnett as I hang my macrame white and red balled Christmas tree on the wall at my school. Her talented and graceful work of art will remain forever in my heart. My students will enjoy her work of art for many years to come... she will be dearly missed by us all!
I always looked forward and enjoyed seeing Helen in the Macrame class. He brightened up the room. She was always so helpful and had so much wisdom to share. She will be dearly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with her family. Heather
Mrs. Burnett was always one of the sweetest ladies to talk or interact with at the Light House when I volunteered. She was so respected and was a joy to be with. This summer when I had been there I missed seeing the clients and had looked forward to seeing them this fall. Mrs. Burnett will be missed by many. I will truly remember the wonderful lady who always had a smile and never missed saying "thank you" for the littlest thing done for her. Sandra Davis
HELEN WAS AN INSPIRATION TO US ALL WITH HER FAITHFULNESS AND STRENGTH IN THE LORD. IT BRINGS TEARS AND SMILES TO US ALL KNOWING THAT NOW HELEN CAN SEE AGAIN.
Granny B is my definition of strength and I will miss her always.
I will miss you for ever. I love you
I transported Helen over the years to/from various places and it was always a pleasure. I was continually amazed with her independence, especially living on her own with the challenges that brought her. She would most likely say, 'it's not really a challenge'!! I missed her when she moved from St. Petersburg and will always think of her when I drive by her old residence.
Granny was one of the smartest, bravest, and most independent women I've ever known. She was an amazing person--even without her eyesight...I can only imagine the impact she would have made on this world if she had not lost her vision early in life! Granny proudly remained "on her own" until she broke her ankle on July 31st. Going to rehab started her life's downward slide, as it does for so many elderly people. When I saw Granny on the afternoon of September 5th, she enjoyed a cup of orange sherbet while laughing and conversing with Peyton (my daughter)and me--as if she felt perfectly fine. I later learned from Charlene (my aunt) that Granny told her that night that Granny "was tired... tired of fighting a losing battle." Knowing that explains why, when Granny's daytime nurse came on duty at 7 AM the following morning, she noticed a dramatic change in Granny's demeanor. By mid-morning, the nurse could tell that Granny's journey on earth was coming to an end. I am forever thankful that I got to the healthcare center on Monday while she was still somewhat lucid, that I got to tell her how much I loved her, and that I got to hear her say those words to me one last time before she lost her ability to speak. I am grateful that she was able to hear from so many people who loved her before she died. I am so happy that today, as we weep and mourn her death, she is laughing with Jesus and enjoying the glorious sights that she has missed during the last 3 decades. Granny's death was picture perfect, if there is such a thing. During the final 30 to 40 minutes of her life, the Hospice chaplain came to visit, sharing memories of prior conversations he'd had with her. Charlene, Mom, Mike, Peyton, Andrew (Peyton's friend), Mark, and me gathered hands, and the chaplain prayed over Granny's body. He, then, led us in song, singing "Blessed Assurance" and Granny's favorite, "Amazing Grace." When we began "Amazing Grace," Granny was alive. After we finished singing the part "...and grace will lead me home...", Granny's spirit was gone. God had led her home! Those of you who knew her, rejoice! Granny was blind, but now she sees! She's in God's caring hands, awaiting the time until she sees us again.
We always enjoyed visiting and dining with Helen when we were in the St. Petersburg area. Our visits to Florida will never be the same but our thoughts will always be of Helen because of her strength and determination. We will miss her also.
