Betty J. Burnside's Obituary
Betty J. Burnside died peacefully on Friday June 21, 2024 at her home in Fort Gratiot, Michigan at the age of 92. She was born March 18, 1932 to the late Jess and Georgia Branscome in Ivanhoe, Virginia. Betty was the last of her six siblings to pass.
She moved from Ashtabula, Ohio to Midland, Michigan in the late 1950’s after marrying her late husband, David Massaro and started their family. Those were busy and memorable times raising their young children together
After Dave’s untimely passing in 1974, she married James Burnside on May 1, 1975.
Betty worked hard as a young bride and mother when she began working as a waitress in her early years and in the later 1980’s as her children were grown, she was co-owner of an American Greeting Store at the Circle Mall in Midland, Michigan. Once her husband Jim retired from Dow Chemical, Betty and Jim moved to Florida. Wanting to keep busy, she took a job at the Tampa Bay Auto Auction, where she took great pride in learning new skills in the office.
Betty will be lovingly remembered for her quick sense of humor, bringing laughter to those around her. Her speed walking was a passion that she enjoyed up to the final years of her life. She was a fabulous cook but will be best remembered for her baking skills. The famous Cinnamon rolls, fudge and fancy decorated cookies which were almost too pretty to eat. Her young children were treated with elaborate themed birthday cakes, as well as Easter bunny cakes as an Easter tradition. The holiday times were made so special with all her loving touches for her family.
The final few years brought back to Michigan where she lived closer to her daughter Debbie and her family near St. Clair, Michigan. Betty’s love of reading provided her a peaceful life. She never lost her keen sense of humor or her love of fun! Betty made many wonderful friends while living at Lake Huron Woods in Fort Gratiot, Michigan.
Betty is survived by her children, Jerry (Sue) Massaro, Russell (Kim) Bugary, Debbie (Mike) Karner, David Massaro, Michael Massaro, Andrew Massaro; grandchildren, Brian Massaro, Meghan Massaro, Melissa (Larry) Mitchell, Laura Karner, Anna Massaro, Maggie Massaro, Jorja Massaro, Brittnay (Tristan) Littlefield, Preston (Alli) Bugary; great grandchildren, Addy, Garrett and Conner Littlefield, Leonora Bugary as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
She also leaves behind stepsons, Todd (Deb) Burnside and Keith (Kerry) Burnside and their children.
Betty was preceded in death by her parents, siblings and late husbands, David Massaro and James Burnside.
The family would like to thank the entire staff and medical team at Lake Huron Woods for their kindness and care towards our mom. Also, we would like to thank the team at McLaren Hospice and Dr. Jarad and his staff who all took wonderful care of mom.
As per her wishes, no public services are planned, and cremation arrangements entrusted to Young Funeral Home, China Twp. A family Celebration of her life will be held privately at a later date. Those wishing to leave a donation in her memory may do so by contributing to a charity of their choice. To leave a message of comfort visit www.youngcolonia.com
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