Mrs. Burke Rouse Fitzpatrick Chambers, of Montgomery, Alabama, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 18 after a long illness. Born September 4, 1942 in Montgomery, she was preceded in death by her parents, Clement Tranum Fitzpatrick and Martha Burke Rouse Fitzpatrick. Mrs. Chambers is survived by her loving husband of 57 years, Elisha Thornton “Bud” Chambers, Jr. She also leaves behind a daughter, Martha Burke “Marti” Chambers Rice (Rushton) and a son, James Shepherd Chambers; two brothers, Clement Tranum Fitzpatrick, Jr.(Martha) and LD Rouse Fitzpatrick (Cindy); three grandchildren, Martha Burke Chapman Rice, James McLaine Chambers and Isabella Lou Chambers; and numerous beloved nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.
Except for her time at the University of Alabama, where she was a member of Kappa Delta sorority, Burke spent her life in Montgomery, where she was a graduate of Sidney Lanier High School Class of 1960. She was well known as a treasure to her community and one of its most gracious hostesses. She served as President of the Junior League of Montgomery, and as a member of the board of Working Women’s Home Association, a community non-profit. At Trinity Presbyterian Church, she was President of the Women in the Church (WIC), and was instrumental in starting Helping Hands and the Condolence Committee, among other distinctions. She enjoyed spending time with her friends and customers at the Brass Fountain and the Paper Store.
Burke’s gift was the gift of hospitality, and she was always there to help and to serve others. Even when she became a participant at Respite Ministry, it was important that she herself provide comfort and companionship for her friends there. Above all, she truly loved her role with Respite’s Side-by-Side Choir.
A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, May 21 at First United Methodist Church, with a visitation in the Fellowship Hall at noon. In lieu of flowers, the family requests you consider a donation to The Respite Ministry, 2416 W. Cloverdale Park, Montgomery, AL 36106.
