Phyllis M. Burke

Born in Boston to William D. and Mary Sullivan Moran and raised in Newton, MA with her sisters Dorothea and Nancy, Phyllis graduated from Regis College in 1950. Phyllis was the beloved wife of the late Edward F. Burke (d. 1993) whom she married in 1954, beginning a devoted partnership. After working as a public school teacher in St. Louis while Ed served in the USAF, they settled in Providence in 1955. Phyllis supported Ed’s lifelong public service work for the City of Providence and State of Rhode Island, including as Chairman of the Public Utilities Commission.

As the pillar of her large family, Phyllis’ warmth shone brightest at the holiday gatherings she hosted throughout her life. Phyllis was gifted at seeing the best in others so they could find a sense of purpose and belonging. With unconditional support and optimism, Phyllis encouraged each member of the family to pursue what they loved. Phyllis derived her own grace and strength from her many meaningful relationships and her Catholic faith. She treasured springtime, the ocean, classical music, and sunsets. She will be remembered for her kindness, warmth, and caring for others.

She is survived by her children, Edward Burke of Providence, RI, Elizabeth Burke Bryant and her husband Daniel Bryant of East Greenwich, RI, David Burke and his wife Lynne Burke of Barrington, RI, and Melissa Burke of Burlingame, CA; her grandchildren: Sarah Burke and her husband, Steve Tracy, Caitlin Burke and her partner, Scott Laudati, Edward Burke and his wife, Kerrie Mitchell Burke, Eliza Bryant and her wife Kim Paull, Benjamin Bryant, Caroline Burke and her partner, Todd Venook, Will Burke, Matthew Buntic, and Katherine Buntic; and four great-grandchildren: Rose and Oren Bryant-Paull, and Gus and Nell Burke Tracy. She was also survived by her sister, Dorothea Reid of Mentor, OH and many nieces and nephews. The family is grateful for the friendship and compassion of Phyllis’ three caregivers, Helena, Alcinda, and Leila, and the home hospice care of Hope Health.

Visitation hours are 4:00-7:00 PM on Friday, March 28, 2025 at the Russell Boyle and Son Funeral Home, 331 Smith Street, Providence. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 AM, Saturday, March 29 at St. Pius V Church, 240 Eaton Street, Providence. Burial will be at St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston. In Phyllis’ memory, the family would appreciate donations to Rhode Island KIDS COUNT at https://rikidscount.org/donate/.