Obituary of Brenda Joy Burley
Brenda Joy Burley (aka Brenda Joy Horvath)
January 1963 – September 2024
It is with profound sadness that we announce that Brenda Joy Burley, age 61, passed away on Wednesday, 18 September 2024, in Somerville, New Jersey, after a lengthy illness. Beloved and devoted youngest daughter of Robert and Norma Burley, dear little sister of Arthur (Josée) and Anne, and auntie to Scott Burley and Robin Brown. Brenda also leaves her only child, son Brandon Horvath, of New Jersey, and many maternal and paternal cousins.
Born and raised in Lachine, Quebec, Brenda was very social and had a wide circle of friends during elementary and high school, at CEGEP, and in university. Some of those friendships became lifelong. Her calling to a career in health care included a Bachelor of Science, Nursing, degree (BScN) (McGill University) and a Masters of Health Administration (University of Ottawa). Brenda began her varied nursing career at home in Canada, and later carried her skills to the United States.
After moving to New Jersey in 1996, Brenda eventually became a fulltime homemaker and mom, priding herself on doing things well and beautifully. Brenda’s nursing training assisted in everyday situations when family members were unwell, providing valuable insights. She enjoyed cross-stitch needlecrafts, fitness and sports of many descriptions, cooking and baking, as well as local and international travel. As an avid photographer, Brenda captured the simplicity and beauty of the world around her. She proudly celebrated her Canadian heritage, decorating her home with Montreal flags and memorabilia, and she was a dedicated supporter of Montreal's sports teams. Brenda made sure to stay in touch with extended family and distant friends. Her siblings (Arthur and Anne) also remember the little redheaded girl whose innocent one-liners still elicit chuckles. Brenda's passion for life and her spirited dedication to the things she loved will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.
In accordance with Brenda’s wishes, cremation services were held privately. Interment will be at Rideau Cemetery, Dollard-des-Ormeaux, Quebec, at a later date (to be determined), where she will rest near the gravesite of her cherished parents.
