Barbara Dean (Saxon) Burgess

Barbara Dean Saxon Burgess, 85, of Chattanooga, TN passed away on Sunday, May 23, 2021. She was welcomed home into the loving arms of her Lord and Savior and reunited with her husband of 56 years, Sam. Barbara passed while surrounded by her family at her home, Morning Pointe of East Hamilton, where she lived with her dachshund, Toby.

Barbara lived her life serving and loving her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. She was a godly example to her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, all of whom were loved so very well by her. Barbara’s family attended a private burial service at the Chattanooga National Cemetery on June 9th, 2021, followed by a luncheon in her honor at Concord Baptist Church, where her life was celebrated and all of her favorite foods where served.

Barbara was born in Gadsden, Alabama on January 11, 1936 to Henry and Ann Saxon. Shortly after, she moved to Chattanooga, TN. Barbara spent her childhood in Lookout Valley, where she attended Pan Gap Baptist Church and dedicated her life to serving Jesus Christ. Barbara was a graduate of Central High School on Dodds Avenue. She met her husband of 56 years, Samuel Denton Burgess, Jr. at a dance at the YWCA (referred to by Sam as the “lonely hearts club”).

Barbara began her professional career at Double Cola on Broad Street, where she also modeled for an advertising campaign. She worked at the TNT Plant, the Chattanooga City School System, retiring from the Chattanooga Electric Power Board. Barbara enjoyed working with the 1954 Class of Central High School Alumni, square dancing at Allemande Hall, tole painting, ceramics, sewing, knitting, cooking for her family and collecting antiques. She loved birds and working in her flower garden. Throughout her life, she held leadership positions with the East Brainerd Elementary PTA, Tyner Band League, Professional Secretary Association, Red Hat Club, along with many other local organizations. As a member of the Concord Baptist Church family for 60 years, Barbara served in countless roles, including Cradle Roll Director, WMU Director, Sunday School teacher, Hospitality and Vacation Bible School. She also volunteered at the Baptist Student Center at UTC, Salvation Army Angel Tree and attended Bible Study Fellowship

Barbara showed us the gentle strength, quiet dignity and fierce love of a true southern lady. She loved entertaining and ensured that her children and grandchildren were well-versed in proper etiquette, music and “at least know how to waltz”.

Barbara is preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, Lois McGee and Joyce Gossett, and her grandson, Isaac Paul Burgess.

Barbara is survived by her two children, Lea Ann Burgess Bolick and Samuel Denton Burgess, III, seven grandchildren who were the “bright spots in her life”, six great grandchildren and her sister, Sue Saxon Willard.

Barbara will be most remembered for her strength and faith, steadfast even in suffering. Her family is heartbroken to lose our beloved “Mom” and “Nana” yet rejoice knowing that her lifelong, unwavering faith has at last become sight!

“The Master said, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant.’” Matthew 25:21

In lieu of flowers, please give to the Concord Baptist Church Women’s Ministry in Barbara’s honor.

Please share your memories of Barbara with the family at www.chattanoogaeastbrainerdchapel.com

Arrangements are by the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist, 8214 E. Brainerd Rd., Chattanooga, TN 37421.