Jean Culbert Burnside

Life is like a party, and for a lucky few, the party is organized with a combination of elegance, conviviality and grace. For Jean Culbert Burnside, who departed this world peacefully on Feb. 21st, 2024, the life that she shepherded was always cloaked in beauty, thoughtfulness, honesty and charm. Parties that she hosted left guests feeling happy to have had a seat at her table. Her presence commanded respect and her kindness knew no bounds.

Born on Jan 27, 1929, in Fremont, Ohio, Jean was filled with an adventurous spirit from a very young age. She became accustomed to exploring new places as her family regularly moved to follow her father’s career throughout the east coast of the United States. Blessed with an ability to skillfully traverse unknown roads throughout her life, Jean navigated challenges and opportunities with curiosity and determination. The eldest of three siblings, she was always quick to forge a path forward for everyone in tow.

It was at Hyattsville High School in Maryland that Jean met the love of her life, Waldo Burnside. From there, she attended the University of Maryland earning her degree in education. Married in 1950, Jean taught nursery school and kindergarten until she and Waldo started their family. Together, they raised their four children in Bethesda, MD as Waldo progressed on his career path as a department store executive at Woodward and Lothrop and later at Carter Hawley Hale. Her love for her husband and her commitment to their mutual ambitions made her an integral part of their unstoppable team. Throughout their 73 years of married life they embarked on new territories together and gained a strong footing in the local communities that they served. Jean stayed committed to working in partnership with Waldo to raise an incredible family and together they lived their lives dedicated to personal integrity and generosity.

Aided by a profound intellect Jean savored everything life offered her: travel, food, art and design, adventure, and nature. She was smart and observant and encouraged others to embrace the world with open eyes and gratitude for a life filled with opportunity. Possessed with impeccable style, she had an ability to create an environment of inspiration that captivated all who crossed her path. Jean’s laugh was infectious, her poise and sophistication admirable, and her beauty effortless and undeniable.

Above all Jean was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. Her wisdom and guidance will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Though Jean may no longer walk among us, her spirit will live on in the hearts and minds of those she touched.

Jean is preceded in death by her husband Waldo Burnside, father Don Culbert, mother Edna Hilbish Culbert and brother Jim Culbert. She is survived by her four children: Diane, Leslie (Joe), Arlene (Greg), and Bill; her eleven grandchildren: Gretchen, Drew, George, Lauren, Jaime, Katie, Tony, Michael, Brian, Phil, Rachel, her ten great-grandchildren and her sister Mary Faw.

Join us in a celebration of Jean on June 1st at 11:00 am at Gawler’s Funeral Home at 5130 Wisconsin Ave, Washington DC. May her soul rest in eternal peace.

Memorial contributions may be made to the University of Maryland C. P. Foundation (giving.umd.edu/giving) or Saint John’s Health Center Foundation (saintjohnsfoundation.org).