Russell – Carole F. Burke, of Russell, passed away peacefully at home Saturday, April 9, 2016, surrounded by her loving family.
Carole was born Sept. 24, 1929 in Westfield, to Leroy Dwight Frisbie and Beatrice Elizabeth (Ferriter) Frisbie. She grew up in Russell and attended Westfield High School. She graduated from Vermont College with a BA, and soon thereafter moved to New York City. While working at St. Luke’s Hospital, she met and married Thomas J. Burke who predeceased her. She subsequently returned to Russell and earned her M.Ed. from American International College.
Carole served as a dedicated elementary educator in both Connecticut and Massachusetts until her retirement in 2000.
She was a faithful and active member of her community. She always thought of others and put their needs first before her own. She was a Eucharistic minister and lector for Holy Family Parish, as well as a member of the Parish Council. She was involved for many years as a board member for the Council on Aging, and was a long-standing member of the Westfield Women’s Club.
During her lifetime, she enjoyed skiing, reading, painting, and gardening. She also loved to travel and did so extensively with her family and friends.
Carole was a compassionate and independent woman who cherished her family and valued her friends. She lived her life with complete dignity and grace. She will be truly missed by everyone who knew and loved her.
Carole is survived by her devoted son, Richard Burke and his wife Mary Ellen of Westfield. She was lovingly known as Nana to her grandchildren, Theresa (Tracey), Patrick and Christopher. She leaves her beloved sisters, Marguerite (Peggy) Chamberlain of Greenfield and Sally Campbell and her husband Bruce of Marlborough. She also leaves behind her loving nephew, four nieces, two grandnieces, and many cousins. Carole also had loyal and dear friends with whom she shared her love of life and faith.
A Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated Saturday, April 30, at 11 a.m., at Holy Family Church, 5 Main St., Russell. The family will receive relatives and friends beforehand in the church between the hours of 10-11 a.m. Interment will be private. www.westfieldfuneralhome.com.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in Carole’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
