Burnesse Roberts-Boddie

Burnesse Roberts-Boddie, loving wife, sister, and friend to many, unexpectantly passed away on
June 13, 2023, at her home.
Burnesse was born July 8, 1950, to the late Edna Roberts and Burnese Roberts in Portsmouth,
VA, and was affectionally called “Burnie” from time she was born. She was the sixth child of
fourteen children.
Burnie loved growing up with her large family. She was the fun aunt who spoiled her nieces and
nephews on their birthdays and special occasions. Burnie was known for her culinary skills. Her
crabcakes were renowned. During the holidays, she was known for her extraordinary baking
skills, particularly for her world-famous sweet potato pies.
In 1982, Burnie married the love of her life, Andrew Boddie. Together, they enjoyed international
travel, comedy shows, shopping sprees, and were avid fans of “Jeopardy”. During football
season, Burnie and Andrew feverishly rooted for “America’s Team”—the Dallas Cowboys!
Burnesse’s professional career was with Trinity Washington University located in Washington, DC
where she retired after 25 years of service. As the registrar for the college, Burnie played an
integral role in ensuring students met all their academic requirements to graduate from the
university and worked with the deans in various academic departments within the college to
determine educational course requirements for graduation within each degree program. During her
tenure at Trinity Washington University, she received several awards and accolades for her hard
work, leadership, and commitment to higher learning.
After retirement, Burnesse worked at Maureen’s School of Dance. “Miss B.”, as she was
affectionately called was known as an incredible woman. She was so much more than an
employee at the dance school. Miss. B., was a loyal and trusted friend to Maureen, Michelle, and
many dance families. She was loved by so many, greeting everyone with her quick wit to match
her amazing smile. Miss. B., was such an important part of Maureen’s School of Dance family for
over 15 years, keeping EVERYONE on their toes. To honor her memory, a dance scholarship in
her name will be given each year.
You never came into Burnesse’s presence and left the same way. Those who knew Burnie will
remember her for her great words of wisdom, tons of invaluable information, putting you in your
place when needed, humility, kindness, simplicity, and eternal smile.
Burnesse was preceded in life by her siblings Louis E. Roberts, Delton Dixon Robin Roberts,
Laverne Hines, Patricia Burgess, Vera E. Galloway, and her niece Kenyada Magum. She leaves
behind her husband Andrew J. Boddie; siblings Francine Olgesby, Ginnie Faye Wooten,
Jacqueline L. Wingate, Margeline Roberts, DeLisa Robert-Jenkins, Doreene R. Mann, Antoinette
Roberts-Washington; her mother-in-law Helen Boddie-Brown; sisters-in-law Theresa Boddie,
Saundra Jackson, and Linda Boddie, brothers-in-law Milton Boddie and Larry Boddie, and a host
of nieces, nephews, and extended family.