Esther Ann (Mathias) Burns

Esther A. Burns, 99, formerly of Schuylkill Haven and Winter Park, FL, died November 22 at Seton Manor Nursing Home. Born Elma Esther Matthias in Logrow, West Virginia on March 11, 1926, she was a daughter of the late John and Alice Corradi Matthias. She was the widow of the late James M Burns, who died in 2017.

Esther’s nursing career began when she accepted a scholarship to Capital City School of Nursing, Gallinger Hospital, in Washington, DC; she received her RN in 1948 (and later an MSN degree from Catholic University of America). Not long after earning her RN, she met young Airman James Burns while canoeing on the Potomac; they married in 1952. They lived in Guam, Alaska, California, Florida and Ohio as well as Pennsylvania during their 65-year marriage and James’ Air Force and later government career. During this time, Esther earned an M.Ed. degree from Rollins College and launched a second career as an elementary school teacher. Esther and James enjoyed traveling and spending summers on their Ohio farm.

She was preceded in death by John, Ralph and Robert and sister Rose Mathias.

Surviving are her niece and caretaker Maureen (John) Challenger, nieces, nephews, great nephews, great nieces and great-great nephew.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, January 3 at 11 am at St. Stephen Chapel, Port Carbon, with Rev. Edward B. Connolly officiating. Burial to follow in St. Stephen Cemetery, Port Carbon.