Aileen Francis Burris

Mrs. Aileen Frances (Moore) Burris passed away peacefully on August 25, 2025, in Palmdale, California, at the age of 96. She was born on August 8, 1929, in Kansas City, Missouri.

As an only child, Aileen began her life in the heartland before moving to Santa Barbara, California. She later made her home in Pacoima, CA, where she and her husband, Jessie Richmond, raised a loving family of eight children with strength, dedication, and resilience. In later years, she found companionship and love again with her husband Leonard Burris. Aileen eventually settled in Palmdale, where she spent her later years.

Aileen’s life was a true testament to love, resilience, and the enduring strength of family. Through nearly a century of life, she witnessed tremendous changes in the world while remaining a constant and nurturing presence for all who knew her. Aileen was blessed to witness five generations of her family, a testament to the enduring legacy of her love and devotion.

She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—crocheting blankets that brought warmth to generations, immersing herself in books, taking daily walks, and enjoying the peace of the ocean during beach visits. Family gatherings were her greatest joy, moments she cherished deeply, filled with laughter, stories, and connection.

Aileen was preceded in death by her beloved husband Leonard Burris and her former husband Jessie Marion Richmond. She also mourned the loss of her children Kathy Wright and Jesse Michael Richmond; sons-in-law Thomas Wright and Jesse Pratt; grandson Tommy Wright; and granddaughter Lanita Pratt.

She leaves behind a legacy of love carried on by her daughters Pamela Pratt, Sandra Richmond, Mary Richmond, Janise Edwards and her husband Donald Edwards; her son Wesley Richmond and his wife Verna Richmond and Rodney Richmond and his wife Sharlene Richmond; and daughter-in-law Lisa Richmond, and God-son Eugene Marshall. Her spirit lives on through countless grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and a wide circle of extended family and cherished friends.

One of her favorite songs was “Family Reunion” by The O’Jays—a perfect reflection of her unwavering love for family and togetherness. At age 95, Aileen celebrated Mother’s Day on a cruise surrounded by those she loved, and just weeks before her passing, she was honored with a joyful celebration of her 96th birthday.

Aileen Frances Burris will be remembered for her smile, laughter, strength, and the love. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.