Nancy J. Burden

Fiercely loving and endlessly kind, Nancy had a gift for making everyone around her feel like family, whether you were related by blood or simply lucky enough to know her. Her jokes, quick wit, and the way she could find humor in even the hardest of days made her the kind of person people naturally gravitated toward. Laughter wasn’t just something she shared—it was something she gave, generously and often.

She was the glue that held her family together—a rock, a confidante, and the first one to show up when someone needed her. Her love knew no bounds, and her warmth was constant. In every role—wife, mother, sister, friend—she poured her whole heart.

Nancy and her husband, Jerry, proudly owned and operated Madison Square Garden, a welcoming place that became a second home to so many. It wasn’t just a business—it was a gathering place, a sanctuary, and a reflection of her big heart. She served more than food and drinks; she served smiles and stories.

In her free time, Nancy enjoyed fishing, watching NASCAR races, and cheering on her favorite sports teams—especially when she was doing it all with her husband by her side. They were best friends who shared everything, including a deep love for life’s simple pleasures.

Nancy is survived by her four daughters, Robin Richardson, Cheryl Phillips, Karen (Ray) Gragg, and Tracy (Mike) Stacy; 6 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild; and her furbabies, Phoenix, Mya and Miss Kitty.

She was preceded in passing by her husband of 38 years, Jerry Burden; her parents; 3 grandchildren, 2 brothers and a half-sister.

Visitation will be 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, Friday, August 29, 2025, at Elm Ridge Funeral Home; 4600 West Kilgore Avenue, Muncie, IN, 47304. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 PM at Elm Ridge Funeral Home.