Margaret Harkins Burrus

Margaret Harkins Burrus, a beloved matriarch, passed away peacefully on December 25, 2024, at the Haywood Regional Medical Center. Born on September 1, 1926, Margaret touched the lives of many with her devotion to family and her vivacious personality.

Margaret had a fulfilling career as a TWA airline hostess based in Boston, MA prior to her marriage. Following her wedding, she dedicated many years alongside her husband, Brainard Monroe Burrus, at their family business, Martin’s Drug Store in Canton. Their partnership not only encompassed business, but also a profound love that lasted over 60 years. 

Beyond her work, Margaret was known for her zest for life and passion for travel. She cherished trips across the United States and internationally accompanied by her family and friends, creating lasting memories.

Margaret is survived by her children, Samuel Brainard Burrus II and wife Mary Foster Burrus of Clyde, Stephen Anthony Burrus and wife Barbara Revis Burrus of Durham, and Jan Lovelace Burrus of Alexandria, VA. She was a proud grandmother to Clara Ray Burrus and husband Dominic Aquilino, Brainard Monroe Burrus II, and Madeleine Rachel Meiyu Burrus. She also delighted in her role as great-grandmother to Vivienne Monroe Burrus Aquilino, and will be remembered fondly by many nieces and nephews.

Margaret was preceded in death by her husband, Brainard Monroe Burrus, as well as her parents, Lloyd Lewis Harkins and Blanche Green Harkins. She was also preceded by her brothers, Wiley, Dewey, Paul, William “Bill,” Robert, and Carl Harkins, and her sister, Helen Miller.

Margaret Harkins Burrus was a long-time member of Canton First Baptist Church. She leaves behind a legacy of love, devotion, and cherished memories that will be treasured by all who knew her.

A memorial service to honor her life will be held on February 1, 2025, in the Canton Chapel of Wells Funeral Home, located at 3715 Asheville Highway, Canton, NC 28716. The service will begin at 1:00 PM, followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Canton First Baptist Church, 208 Academy Street, Canton, NC 28716, or to United Way of Haywood County - Flood Recovery, 81 Elmwood Way, Waynesville, NC 28786.

The care of Mrs. Burrus has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Canton.