Timothy Alexander Burr

Timothy Burr of Washington DC passed away at 80 on September 8th after living with ALS for 2 years. Timothy, son of W. Eben Burr and June Burr, is survived by his wife of 56 years, Constance Burr, daughter Sarah Crockett, son Eben Burr, daughter Priscilla who predeceased him, brother Thad Burr, three grandchildren, and many nephews and nieces.

Timothy grew up in Fairfield CT on Long Island Sound. After graduating from Hiram College, he joined the Peace Corps in its infancy and served in Nigeria. He began his 30-year career in public information with the Federal Government at Peace Corps Headquarters in 1965, bringing him and Constance to Washington DC. He had a long second career at a Capitol Hill small business as the office techie. He rode his bike to work for 5 decades.

Tim and Constance devoted 50 years to restoring their 1885 row house. “It was unlivable by anyone’s standards,” Constance said, “but it had light, space, and high ceilings, which we love.”

Tim was a full participant in Washington’s culture of music, theater, and art. He was a master potter and sang in several choral groups. He was a long-standing member of the National Press Club, Capitol Hill Restoration Society, Hill Center, and the Smithsonian. He never wasted a minute.

“No one had ever opened a car door for me until I met Tim,” said his daughter-in-law. He was a true gentleman who danced elegantly, wrote poems for birthdays, and always dressed for the occasion. Everyone on Capitol Hill knew him and he loved that.

The service will be on Saturday September 18th at Gawler’s Funeral Home with visitation from 10-12, service at noon (and on Zoom), and interment for immediate family to follow.

Donations may be made to the ALS Foundation, National Arboretum, National Press Club, Capitol Hill Restoration Society, Capitol Hill Day School, Washington Bach Consort and WBJC.