Our Mother Shirley (Sam) Farabee Burt

Our Mother Shirley (Sam) Farabee Burt, a beacon of love and warmth, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She graced this world on March 24, 1945, in Washington, Pennsylvania, born to the late James Lester Farabee and Clara Virginia Fields Farabee. Her gentle spirit and infectious kindness left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her. Shirley lived a life rich in love and devotion. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, James (JR) Richard Burt, with whom she shared 40 beautiful years of marriage before his untimely passing. Together, they created a legacy of love, which endures in their three daughters, Patricia (Jeffrey) Briggs, Brenda (Jake) Dobish, and Jamie (Don) Datson. Her family was her world, and she cherished her role as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her 10 grandchildren—Trista, Samantha, Heather, Jimmy, Christopher Lee, Matthew, Dawn, Christopher Allen, Bryanna, and Brittany—and her 19 great-grandchildren were the light of her life. Education was important to Shirley, and she attended Trinity Area Schools in Washington County, Pennsylvania. Her career was marked by dedication and care, as she worked for several years at the former Washington Restaurant before devoting more than 30 years to Oak Manor Senior Living Community. Her colleagues and residents cherished her for her unwavering compassion and the warmth she brought to every encounter. Shirley's passions were as endearing as they were varied. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, including her love for cats, solving puzzles, and indulging in the Game Show Network. Her home was a sanctuary of acceptance and love, where everyone felt welcomed and valued. She had a unique talent for making everyone feel loved and accepted, wearing her heart on her sleeve with pride. In addition to her husband, Shirley was predeceased by her parents, her sister Virginia (Tootie), and her brother Chuck. She leaves behind a family who will forever treasure her memory, carrying forward her legacy of love, kindness, and acceptance. A celebration of Shirley's remarkable life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will gather to honor and remember the love and joy she brought into their lives. As we bid farewell to this extraordinary woman, we take comfort in knowing her spirit lives on in the hearts of those she touched. Shirley (Sam) Farabee Burt's journey on this earth may have ended, but her legacy of love will continue to inspire and uplift all those who were blessed to be part of her life. Rest in peace, dear Shirley, knowing your love will forever guide us.