Mary Jo Burgess

Our mom was born with the “I’ll do it myself attitude” - until she couldn’t. Under the care of Central Wyoming Hospice, Mary spent her last days on earth “Partying Like a Rockstar”, surrounded by five generations of family, her loving husband, and her loyal Corgi, Ethel. 

Mary Jo Burgess was born to Hattie and Jasper on June 16, 1937. She became the younger sister to Ethelyn. Mary Jo was born and raised in Ulm & Sheridan, WY. She graduated from Sheridan High School in May 1956. After high school, she found her home in Casper, Wyoming. 

Mary Jo and Robert Henley married and had two daughters Sandra and Linda. 

Later on, she met the true love of her life, marrying Edwin R Burgess – Edwin bringing three children: Denby, Valerie, and George into the marriage. Mary and Ed recently celebrated 50 wonderful years of marriage on December 24, 2024. 

Mary was a proud and passionate member of many organizations, those of which include: Evansville Good Neighbors, Fort Caspar #4 Eastern Star, L.O.S.N.A. Kheta Court #59, Beauceant, Daughters of the Nile, The Rebekah’s, The Red Hatters, and The Elks Does. 

Throughout her life, Mary found joy in rescuing Corgi’s. She loved quilting, chocolate, boxed wine, and spending time with her grandchildren (or teaching them her wild ways of life, we’re pretty sure.)

Mary Jo is survived by her loving husband, Edwin R. Burgess, their children Sandra Peterson(fiancé, David Oedekoven), Linda Keyser, Denby Burgess(Carla Brown), Valerie Thiel(Jess), and George Burgess. Grandchildren include Michelle Gifford(Craig), Shawn Hardman, Lauren Peterson, Erin Peterson, Taylour Keyser(Arianna), Eddie Burgess(Elizabeth), Michael VanGorp(Katie and daughters), Michelle, Gabe, and Daniel. Great grandchildren include Scarlett, Madelienne, Brittany, Colton, Skyleur, Madison, Jackson, Parker, Gemma, Betty, and Brady. Nieces and nephews include Chuck Gomendi(Renee), David Gomendi(Kathleen), Bruce Gomendi(Deb), Jim Gomendi(Diane), and Suzanne Baity(Doug.) Great-great Grandchildren include Allyson and Brecken. 

Mary is predeceased by her parents, Jasper and Hattie, her beloved sister Ethelyn, and her infant brother. 

Join us in celebrating her life at First Christian Church on Saturday, February 8, 2025, with viewing at 9 am and funeral service at 10 am. Committal will take place at Highland Cemetery. We ask that everyone in attendance wear Mary’s favorite color, red. 

In lieu of flowers and memorial gifts, donations can be made in Mary’s honor to the organization of your choice. 

To share a memory of Mary or leave a special message for the family, please visit the guestbook below.