Helen Mae Burgess

Helen Mae Burgess, 73, passed away on March 1, 2026, surrounded by her children. We take comfort in imagining her joyful reunion with the love of her life, Greg—likely with Helen immediately catching him up on everything he missed.

Shortly after graduating from Grand Blanc High School in 1971, Helen hitchhiked to Florida and back—just one early sign of the free spirit she would remain all her days. Quirky, warm, and unapologetically herself, Helen lived authentically and loved deeply.

In 1983, while waitressing in Flint, she met Greg Burgess. Whether it was her effortless charm or her infectious laugh, he was smitten. Together they built a life filled with music, laughter, and enduring love, eventually welcoming two children, Erin and Brad, who were her greatest pride.

Helen had a rare gift for connection. She welcomed others with open arms and an open heart, offering kindness and love without condition. Strong-willed and sometimes stubborn, she was also brave, loyal, and fiercely devoted to those she loved.

Music was one of her great joys—especially the songs of Eric Clapton, which she sang often with enthusiasm. She loved God, her family, and award shows (which she followed with expert focus). She faithfully recorded life’s details on her calendar and was famously the last to finish a meal, often still “working on it” long after dessert was served.

Six years ago, Helen was diagnosed with end-stage renal disease and later dementia. What followed was a long and difficult journey of treatments and interventions, which she faced with remarkable determination. True to her nature, she fought to live with courage and resilience.

In her final days, Helen expressed deep pride in her children and heartfelt gratitude for the family who stood beside her - notably her sister, Sally Sprague and sister-in-law, Lyn Pruett. Though we grieve her loss, we are grateful she is free from suffering and reunited with Greg.

Helen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Greg Burgess; her mother, Mary Welch; and siblings Larry Kirby, George Kirby, Chancie Kirby, Joan Reddy, and Bill Pruett.

She is survived by her devoted daughter, Erin Cogswell (Dan); her son, Brad Burgess (Cora); granddaughters, Eleanor and Georgia; her sister, Sally Sprague; as well as countless friends and extended family who will cherish her memory.

Her absence is deeply felt, but so is the joy she brought into the world. May we honor her by singing a little louder, loving a little harder, welcoming others openly, and perhaps savoring our meals a little longer.

A visitation will be held at Hill Funeral Home, 11723 S. Saginaw Street, Grand Blanc, MI 48439, on Sunday, March 8, 2026 from 11:30am to 3:00pm. A funeral service will be held at 3:00pm following the visitation. Helen will be laid to rest at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan.

Rock on, Helen. Greg’s been waiting.