Sara Smith Burcham, age 91, died peacefully at her home on Saturday, February 22, after a long illness. She was born May 1, 1928 in Atlanta, GA, where she grew up and lived until her twenties. She moved to Huntsville from Chattanooga in 1955.
She was active in her children’s activities, including PTA and being a Scout leader. Following her lifelong dream to become a nurse, she went back to school and earned her RN degree at age 48, after which she worked for several years. She loved reading and fostered this love in her children and grandchildren by frequent trips to the library. She enjoyed baking and was always ready to share recipes. She always loved music, had a beautiful alto voice, and shared music with all those around her. She sang folk music with Terry in many different occasions, winning several awards at competitions. She loved being part of the church choir at Monte Sano Methodist Church. She learned how to play the autoharp when she was in her late 40s and played locally with two string bands.
The biggest sorrow of her life was losing her middle son Jim to cancer.
She loved daffodils, fog on the mountain, giraffes and manatees, and nothing better than a good joke – or better yet, playing one.
She enjoyed her travels, seeing much of this country, and visiting many others. She was so proud of the accomplished artists in her family.
She is survived by her loving husband, Terry, who provided tender care for her for 43 years; daughter, Nancy Robertson; son, Tom Derington; stepdaughters, Becky Hilbert of Cullman, Terry Rasmussen of Kokomo, IN, and Karen Russell; stepsons, Steve Burcham and Mark Burcham; nineteen grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and two great-great grandchildren.
Visitation will be from 1 to 2 p.m. Tuesday February 25 at Monte Sano United Methodist Church.
A Celebration of Life will follow at the church with the Reverend Dale Clem officiating. There will be a private burial.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Huntsville-Madison County Library, the Monte Sano United Methodist Church building fund, or to a favorite charity.
