Margaret A. Burrus

Margaret was born in Columbus, Georgia on January 20, 1958 to the late Augusta Andrews Burrus and Felix Jacob Burrus. Even though she was born with Down Syndrome, she lived an inspirational and meaningful life. She exceeded expectations throughout her life, and was never limited by her differences. Margaret was an exceptional athlete, winning more than 40 medals in a variety of sports, making it all the way to the first ever Special Olympics World Games in 1987, and competing in the 50 yard assisted walk at age 59, where she won first place. She had many friends and loved being around people. She also loved dancing, parties, and dressing up in sparkly things.

Margaret was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Columbus since her childhood and loved serving in the LOGOS children’s program for many years. She participated in the Therapeutic Recreation Program in Columbus for 25 years, and then the Exceptional Foundation of East Alabama in Auburn when she moved to live with her sister.

The highlights of her life were spending time with her family, bowling with her friends every week, being a part of the Discovery Thyme Garden Club, Ladies Club, and going on field trips with her T. R. Program.

She is survived by her sister; A. Embry Burrus (Reita) whom was her legal guardian and caregiver for many years, two aunts; Isabel Triplitt and Katharine Triplitt, two nephews; Max Burrus of Atlanta, Georgia and Jake Burrus of Charlotte, North Carolina and a sister-in-law; Julie Adams Burrus, also of Atlanta, Georgia, along with loving family, friends, and special caregivers; Brenda Tolliver and Gail Mullins. She is preceded in death by her parents; Felix and Augusta Burrus, and her older brother; Felix J. Burrus, Jr. (known to everyone as Jake).

A Celebration of Life Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, February 22, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Grace Presbyterian Church, 7211 Britton Drive, Columbus, Georgia 31904 with a committal service following at Parkhill Cemetery, 4161 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia 31907.

Everyone who knew Margaret loved her, and in return, received her unconditional love. The impact she had on those who knew her will reach far and wide, and the light of her beautiful heart will shine forever. She will always be remembered as an angel on earth. The family would like to thank the staff at Lakewood Specialty Care in Valley, Alabama, Arbor Lake Skilled Nursing in Auburn, Alabama, and Bethany House in Auburn, Alabama. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that those interested make a donation to Special Olympics, Exceptional Foundation of East Alabama, or to Bethany House in Auburn, Alabama.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM ET on Thursday, February 22, 2024 at Grace Presbyterian Church, 7211 Britton Drive, Columbus, Georgia 31904. Burial will follow in Parkhill Cemetery. Reverend Chuck Hasty will be officiating services.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be made for the Burrus family at www.shcolumbus.com.