It is with deep sorrow that the family mourns the loss and celebrates the extraordinary life of Etta Rose Goode Burnett, who passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 23rd, 2020, at the Extendicare Nursing Home in Hamilton, Ontario.
Etta was born to Mary Jane Goode (Nene) and Edgerton Augustus Goode, on May 2nd, 1943, in Kentish, Parish of St. Catherine, Jamaica, W.I.
Around the age of 3, Etta went to live with her Aunt Sis (Mama), her father's oldest sister Mary Goode Waugh, and cousin Vivienne (Vivs), who was like a sister to her. At this time, she began her elementary education. Following this, Etta lived with her Aunt Edith in Fellowship, Portland. She then went on to complete her studies at Titchfield High School in Port Antonio.
Following her high school graduation, Etta was accepted to the University of the West Indies Nursing School in Kingston. She graduated as a Registered Nurse, along with her best friend, Nadine Mitchell Allen, and they decided to emigrate to Canada in 1966, where Etta continued her nursing career.
In this same year, Etta’s nursing position took her to Kenora, Kingston and finally to Hamilton, Ontario, where she worked at the Hamilton General Hospital, from 1968 to 1974.
It was in Canada, that Etta met the love of her life, Alvin “Scotty” Burnett in 1968. Their courtship blossomed and they were married in 1972. They lived together with their two children, Heather and Sean. Etta was a devoted wife and mother and always ensured that her family came first.
Unexpectedly, Etta’s career ended prematurely, due to chronic physical disability, but she continued to remain active by volunteering with the Hamilton Cancer Society and the Canadian Red Cross.
Etta had a sharp memory and was an impeccable planner. Her favourite pastimes included playing scrabble, reading and travelling. Together, Scotty and Etta’s travels took them to Vancouver, England, Cuba, Puerto Rico, many American cities and several Caribbean destinations, including Nassau, Dominica, Antigua, Barbados, Martinique, and of course back home to Jamaica.
Etta is survived by her ever-loving husband Scotty and her cherished children, Heather and Sean. She was deeply loved by her three grandchildren, Deighton, Malcolm and Jaiya.
Etta is also survived by her brother, Donald George Goode, her sisters, Verna Goode Headad and brother-in-law, Earl, Doreen Goode Taylor (Dor) and brother-in-law, George, and preceded in death by her brother, Louis Goode.
Etta will be fondly remembered by her cousins Vivienne Waugh Williams (Vivs) and husband Desmond, Balfour Armstrong, Evon Goode, Lorraine Goode Williams, Phillipa Goode, numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and many friends.
“Mother, you left us beautiful memories, your love is still our guide, although we cannot see you, you're always at our side. The loving legacy and memories you left will live on in the hearts of those you touched. May you Rest in Peace.”
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