Heather Burke

Obituary for Heather Burke

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Heather Burke, a loving sister, aunt, and friend, who left us on Monday March 10, 2025.

Heather was born in Jersey City and spent most of her life there, surrounded by family, friends, and the community she cherished.

Heather graduated from Dickinson High School in 1987 and dedicated her professional life to helping others. She worked for the Jersey City Board of Education for 15 years and spent 8 years working at Equotics Equatics Pet Store. Heather also worked for a cleaning service for many years, always bringing her warm smile and caring nature to every job she did.

A true lover of animals, Heather was an animal rescuer at heart. Her home was filled with her beloved pets, including baby ducks and rabbits. She found joy in nurturing and caring for all creatures, big and small. Heather was also an avid shopper, a fan of singing to Celine Dion, and a passionate dancer. She lived her life with joy and never missed an opportunity to spread happiness and laughter to those around her.

Heather was known for her outgoing, social personality. She had an incredible ability to make anyone feel welcome and was always ready for a friendly conversation. Her caring nature and positive attitude were infectious, and she touched the lives of everyone she met.

Heather was predeceased by her devoted parents, Thomas and Edith Burke, her beloved brother, Thomas W. Burke Jr., and is survived by her loving sisters, Alice Purcell and Edie Burke, nieces LisaMarie Burke, HeatherNicole Burke, and McKenzy Donaway, great nieces and nephews EJ, Ezra, Aleah, Angel, Asaiah, and Analise, along with a host of cousins, friends, and extended family who will miss her deeply.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Emily from JCMC and to all the friends who have supported them during this difficult time.

Heather’s spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She was a shining light in this world, and her memory will continue to bring warmth and joy to all who loved her.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for donations to be made in Heather’s name to the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) https://secure.aspca.org/donate, reflecting her lifelong love and commitment to animals.

A memorial will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at Riotto Funeral Home, 3205 John F. Kennedy Blvd, Jersey City, NJ 07306.(For GPS navigation, it is best to use our parking lot address: 14 Stagg Street).