Remembering the Burgess family

LIBERTY — As the community continues to grieve for the Burgess family, those closest to them came together to reflect on the impact they had on the community.

St. Stephens Episcopal Church held a candlelight vigil on Wednesday, July 16, and Liberty Independent School District held a memorial on Saturday, July 19, where friends and family shared fond memories.

During the candlelight service, attendees heard from the scriptures Isaiah 60:1-5 and John 1:1-5, and Rev. Brandon Mc-Ginnis shared hopeful messages of God’s light shining through the darkest of times, reiterating the sentiments shared in scripture.

The Burgess’ neighbor, Winnie Taylor, attended the service and shared kind words about the family.

“They were just wonderful people and loved each other so much,” Taylor said.

During the LISD memorial, each attendee released butterflies to commemorate the family, and Jenna Burgess, eldest daughter, was given five butterflies to represent each member of the family.

Jenna led the procession outside, running down the aisle with her butterflies in one hand and her friend’s hand in the other as a group of girls headed outside, each with smiles on their faces.

Julia Burgess’ mom took a moment to thank Liberty for welcoming the family with open arms, adding that as soon as Julia visited, she felt at home.

Robert Thornton spoke of John Burgess on behalf of Lance Lawrence, who was unable to attend.

Thornton read the words of Lawrence, mentioning John’s humor, family pool parties, hunting and fishing trips, Texas Christian University, and his “unwavering love” for his family.

Aerial West and Kristin Wright, both teachers at LISD, shared fond memories of Julia.

“Julia did everything with her whole heart,” West said.

West, who was Julia’s teaching partner, shared that even through cancer treatments, Julia gave her all to her students, family, church, and if she complained, it was because she couldn’t do more.

“She would tell me all the time, she just didn’t know how she would ever do it without me. Now I’ve been having to ask myself that same thing,” West said with tears in her eyes, adding that she will keep Julia in her heart forever.

West then took a moment to talk to Jenna, sharing that Julia was very proud to be her mom, adding, “Her love is going to live on in you... and I cannot wait to see where that love is going to carry you.”

Wright shared how supportive Julia was of those around her and Julia’s deep faith in God.

“Julia wasn’t just a part of our lives. She was a steady presence, a source of light and a constant encouragement,” Wright said.

Wright reiterated to Jenna just how proud Julia was of her and that she would be there for Jenna when she needed it.

Lauren Tristan shared kind words about Jack and James Burgess.

Tristan shared that James, the youngest, always had a smile on his face and his curious eyes were ever observant.

“ His calm spirit balanced the energy around him, and his presence brought a quiet kind of joy that filled every room,” Tristan said.

Tristan described Jack as energetic and full of imagination, adding that when Jack arrived at school, all the kids would brighten up, excited to see their friend.

“He was a light, a magnet for happiness and a reason to smile, even on the hardest mornings,” Tristan said.

Those wishing to honor the family are asked to make donations to a trust established at Amegy Bank, which will benefit the family’s daughter, Jenna, as the only surviving member. Donations can be made out to the Jenna Lacy Burgess Trust, 3639 Tartan Lane, Houston, Texas 77025.