Emma Jean Burgess

She was born in a small town in Tennessee, one of six children, to Luther and Georgianna Franks. As a child she cherished the love of her mother that continued on as an adult. In her early years, times were tough, which only made her stronger.

At the young age of 18 she was wed to Charles E. Burgess and they were blessed with three beautiful sons. Their family spent many years traveling to wherever Charles' employment led them. In the late 1960's their family settled in Yakima, WA where she pursued a 20 plus year career in private nursing.

In 1994 Emma Jean lost her beloved husband Charles to cancer. After Charles' passing, Emma Jean filled her life with painting, spending time with her friends, and a newfound love of dancing at the Yakima Legion and Eagles. It was there that she met and fell in love with her dancing partner for the next 14 years, William (Bill) F. Hansen.

Unfortunately cancer has not been kind to our family and through the years we have lost many loving members. Emma Jean won her first battle with cancer courageously. Upon finding out she was destined to battle again, she fought with all her southern stubborn might. When Emma Jean was told this battle could not be won she requested to be united in holy matrimony to her Bill and her wish was granted.

Emma Jean was preceded in death by her mother, father, five siblings, first husband Charles, and her youngest son Richard Gene Burgess. She is survived by her husband William Hansen, sons Jerry Burgess and David Burgess (Joyce), grandchildren Terry Burgess, Deanna Koch, Kristi Henderson, Kithrena (Teena) Schliep, Dustin Burgess, Susan Cash, Joshua Burgess, and Jami Roberts. She is also survived by eighteen great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild on the way.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to New Generation Church of God, 8806 Ahtanum Rd., Yakima, WA. We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to Memorial Hospice staff especially Jeanne and Kate, to whom we were truly blessed for your guidance and support to our family.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Friday September 21st at Keith and Keith 9th Ave. Chapel in Yakima. Funeral services will be held on Saturday September 22nd at 11:00 a.m. at Keith and Keith Terrace Heights Chapel. Graveside services will follow at West Hills Memorial Park. Our family would also like to invite you to join us in a Celebration of Life on Saturday September 22nd at 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the Yakima Eagles.

Please share a memory at www.keithandkeith.com.