Grace Agnes Burns, 85, of Pawtucket, passed away peacefully Tuesday, November 20, 2023. She was the wife of the late Paul Burns. Born in Pawtucket, she was the daughter of the late Robert and Ann (Quirk) Parkinson.

Grace epitomized hard work and determination, rising at 5:00 AM and going to bed just after 8:00 PM, yet always making time for her favorite shows, whether captivated by the gripping cases on Judge Judy or hoping for that elusive right answer while watching Jeopardy.

A woman of remarkable versatility, Grace initially pursued banking. As her journey unfolded, she expanded her expertise, embracing roles as a teacher assistant, union leader, and custodian within the Pawtucket School Department. Her unwavering commitment marked many years of service before she retired in 2001. Ever-ready for the next chapter, she dedicated many seasons at the Looff Carousel at Slater Park for the City of Pawtucket. Her profound joy, though, always came from the cherished moments spent with her beloved family.
A social butterfly at heart, Grace had a passion for card games, engaging in lively play with friends and family. Her love for reading was reflected in her ability to breeze through the latest thriller and mystery releases. Weekends were incomplete without a visit to her cherished Macy's (formerly Filene's), where the highlight was not just the finds but the triumphant moment of taking credit for all the sales, playfully asking, "Guess how much I got this for?"

With a "razzle-dazzle" spirit, Grace adored live entertainment and musicals, frequently regaling stories of her "show business days" filled with "all that jazz" and the comedic antics of herself and her friends.

Always up for an adventure, Grace enjoyed bus trips to destinations like Foxwoods and Atlantic City. A true go-getter, she eventually led the "Burns Group" trip to Atlantic City for nearly three decades with Conway Tours during February school break. Grace's dynamic character shined in these moments as she curated memorable experiences and outrageous moments for all. Her incredible wit and humor put her in the spotlight at every gathering, often in on the gag or orchestrating the laughter.

A self-proclaimed "commoner," Grace cherished lively conversations with family and friends, paired with the simple pleasures of enjoying a burger and a beer...or two. Grace's legacy of joy, adventure, and vibrant spirit will be cherished by all who had the privilege of sharing in her laughter and love.

The Burns family extends their gratitude to the staff at New Horizons Adult Day Care Center in Pawtucket and Woonsocket Health and Rehabilitation for their compassionate care.

She is survived by her children Christopher Burns (Michael), Colleen Burns, and Kevin Burns. Grace was the mother to the late Timothy Burns. She was the grandmother to Ryan Burns, Ashlee Burns, and Monica Burns. Grace was the great grandmother to Juniper Williams. She also leaves her niece Joy Wharton (Charles).

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to a Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, November 27th, at 10:00 AM in Holy Family Parish Church, 195 Walcott St, Pawtucket. Burial will follow in Mt. St. Mary's Cemetery, Pawtucket.

Visiting hours are on Sunday, November 26th, from 1:00 - 3:00 PM in the Manning-Heffern-O'Neill Funeral Home, 220 Cottage St., Pawtucket.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Rhode Island chapter of the Alzheimer's Association.