George Stuart Sandidge Burford

"George" Stuart Sandidge Burford died in Charlottesville on Saturday, June 20, 2015, after a protracted illness. Born in 1924, and raised in Amherst County, Mr. Burford is survived by two nieces and two nephews, his dedicated caregivers from "Above and Beyond" and by a host of devoted friends. Stuart Burford enlisted in the U.S. Army at 18 years old and was serving as a bombardier when his plane was shot down on the Holland/Belgium border in 1944. He marched across Germany on a broken leg and was held in a prison camp until the war ended. Mr. Burford’s extraordinary valor and service to country were rewarded with two Purple Hearts. Stuart Burford attended the University of Virginia School of Architecture, but found his true calling as a Master Chef – the career that distinguished him in Virginia and beyond; he produced celebrated events and state dinners for prestigious guests from Her Majesty, the Queen of England to numerous Presidents. Many of his recipes form the culinary foundation of Albemarle County; few will ever forget his famous onion sandwiches. Stuart Burford will long be remembered as a beloved member of the Charlottesville community. As a lifetime member of the Keswick Hunt Club, his legacy as a great dog and horse lover, as a gifted chef and a true Virginia gentleman will live on for generations to come. A small graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, June 25, 2015, at Elon Presbyterian Church, 2290 Cedar Gate Road, Madison Heights, VA 24572 with Pastor Barry Tucker presiding. Stuart Burford will be laid to rest beside his beloved mother, Edith Waters Burford. A Celebration of Stuart Burford’s Magnificent Life will be held at the Keswick Hunt Club this fall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: The Focused Ultra Sound Foundation, 1230 Cedars Court, Suite F, Charlottesville, VA 22903