Funeral services for Mrs. Naomi Virginia Burgess were conducted at noon Monday, July 24, 2023, at Saulters Moore Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Danny Forrest officiating.  Mrs. Burgess, age 96, en-tered into the eternal rest of her Lord late Wednesday night, July 19, 2023, at her home in Prentiss.  Saulters Moore Funeral Home was entrusted with arrangements.

The Burgess family received friends Monday, July 24, beginning at 10 a.m. until the hour of service at noon at the funeral home. 

Following the chapel service, family and friends met at Hickory Grove Cemetery in Laurel Monday, July 24, at 3 p.m. for the graveside service.

Serving as pallbearers were Buck Burgess, Don Burgess, Curly Wayne Hynum, Shannon Dunn, Daniel Fuson and Garrett Willis.

Naomi Virginia Burgess was born on Dec. 12, 1926, in Laurel. After graduating high school, she pur-sued her passion for nursing by enrolling in the Nursing Program at Baptist Hospital in Jackson. There, she immersed herself in rigorous training and emerged as a highly skilled Registered Nurse. It was clear from the outset that Mrs. Burgess possessed a special gift – an unwavering dedication to providing comfort and care to those in need. Mrs. Burgess’ journey of healing began when she joined the former Community Hospital in Laurel as a young nurse. Subsequently, when her husband received an opportunity to work for the St. Regis Papermill company in 1969, they relocated to Prentiss. In this new chapter of their lives, Mrs. Burgess joined the Jefferson Davis County Hospital as the Director of Nursing. Her remarkable leadership skills and boundless empathy soon led her to assume the same role at the Jefferson Davis Extended Care Facility.  The deep impact that she had on countless lives became even more evident when she accepted an offer to become the Director of Nursing at Simpson County General Hospital in Mendenhall. It was there that Mrs. Burgess spent several fulfilling years before retiring after decades of dedicated service. Her tireless efforts and commitment to excellence resonated with all whom she cared for.

Mrs. Burgess’ calmness in the face of any situation was unwavering, becoming a beacon of strength for all those around her. Throughout the years, friends and family would often turn to her before seeking medical advice from their doctors.  Her dedication to her loved ones knew no bounds and extended far beyond the boundaries of her profession. Her family warmly recalls how she kept her husband at home during his extended illness and lovingly cared for him until his death.  Even in her advanced years, she selflessly traveled out of town to care for sick relatives, providing them with comfort and support.

While nursing was undoubtedly her calling, there were many facets to her vibrant personality that brightened the lives of those around her. She had an unmatched love for holidays, but Christmas held a special place in her heart. The joy she felt when surrounded by her entire family during this festive season was immeasurable.  Known as a remarkable cook, her family will long remember dishes such as her Asparagus Casserole, Sweet Potato Casserole, and Cherry Pie that became sym-bols of love and togetherness around the table. After retiring, Mrs. Burgess also enjoyed tending to the flowers that adorned her yard. It was a hobby that brought her immense happiness and tran-quility.

Mrs. Burgess was preceded in death by her parents, Samuel Weaver and Ollie Mae Bell Monk; her daughter, Virginia Faye Burgess; brothers, J.C. Monk, Sam Monk and her sisters, Ludie Pulliam, Jaunee McGraw and Evelyn Mixon.

Her memory will forever be cherished by her daughters, Gail Hynum (Curly Wayne) and Donna Dunn (Shannon), both of Prentiss; her sons, Buck Burgess (Judy) of Vicksburg, Don Burgess (Kim) of Saucier and her sister, Rachel Caldwell of Tulsa, Oklahoma.  The legacy of their Mammaw will also live on through her granddaughters, Denise, Stacie, Leah, Brandie, Bridgette, Brooke and Della, as well as her 14 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

The Burgess family wishes to express special appreciation to Rev. Danny Forrest, who was not only Mrs. Burgess’ Pastor, but also the chaplain of St. Lukes Hospice, for his attentive support and minis-try.  In addition, they also with to express gratitude to Mrs. Burgess’ caregivers, Kissy, Betty, Jackie, Brenda, Brittany and Judy for their compassion and care.

Online condolences and a guest registry are available at www.saultersmoorefuneralhome.com.