Sister Francis "Helen" Burns

Sister Francis “Helen” Burns RHSJ

                 1923 - 2019

Helen Burns was born August 7, 1923 in Bartholomew, N.B. to James and Myrtle (Scholfield) Burns and was the youngest of nine children.

On March 18, 1946 Helen entered the Hotel Dieu Hospital Community of Religious Hospitalise of St. Joseph in Chatham.  She became the Hospital Records Librarian.  She earned Bookkeeping Diploma from St. Thomas.  She went on to earn a BA in Arts and a Masters Degree in Social Work. She was employed by the New Brunswick Dept. Of Social Services, where she later became the Regional Co-ordinator of Special Projects and Staff Training, retiring in 1984.       In Recognition of her long term service in the province, she was awarded the Sam Field Distinguished Service Medal.  

Following her retirement she was involved with many local Boards of Directors and associations.  The Big Brothers Big Sisters, St. Michael’s Church Community, Medical Records Librarians and Miramichi Foster Parents to mention a few.

In 2009 Sister Burns left Miramichi to join the St. Joseph Regional House community in Amherstville, ON.  With their closure she became part of the RHSJ Community in Kingston, ON

Sr. Burns died peacefully on December 1, 2019 at the infirmary at the Sisters of Providence Motherhouse, Kingston, ON

She was the last surviving member of her family.  She was predeceased by her parents, Four Brothers: Lloyd, Clayton, Burton and Carmen.  Also, Four Sisters: Lavinia, Geraldine, Effie and Cora.  She is survived by 18 Nieces and Nephews and their Families.

Sr. Burns’ life was celebrated at a Mass of Resurrection, on December 4, 2019 at Sisters of Providence Motherhouse in Kingston, ON. Interment St. Mary’s Cemetary, Kingston.   May She Rest in Peace......

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