Mary Louise Cavanaugh Burt
82, Silver Creek
A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 13, 2024, at St. Peter Catholic Church in Bassfield for Mary Louise Cavanaugh Burt, 82, of Silver Creek, who entered into the eternal rest of her Lord on Sunday, Jan. 7, in Prentiss. Burial followed in St. James Cemetery. Father Thomasz Golab officiated at the services. The wake began at 5:30 p.m. followed by a Rosary Service at 7 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 12, in St. Peter Parish Hall and from 9 a.m. until the time of the services on Saturday, Jan. 13, at St. Peter Catholic Church.
She was born on Feb. 18, 1941, in Marion County to James Bernard and Mary Elizabeth Kirby Cavanaugh. She grew up in Bassfield and graduated from Bassfield High School in 1958. Several years after their marriage, she and her husband settled in Silver Creek over 50 years ago and raised their family there. She was a faithful member of St. Peter Catholic Church in Bassfield.
Her love for her family was immeasurable and her dedication was unmatched. She truly embodied what it meant to be a devoted wife and mother. Her husband relates that he has countless memories of her waking up at 2 a.m. to prepare breakfast for him whenever he had shift work at the paper mill. Their marriage spanned over 58 years, and their love and devotion remained steadfast even during the last years of her declining health.
She took a home economics class while a student at Bassfield High School where she learned to sew. From there, she perfected her talent over the next many years. Her daughters have fond memories of going with their mother to the TWL store in Monticello to select fabrics for their different outfits. Seemingly, she could create anything on a sewing machine. From band uniforms to cheerleader outfits, countless people have been the fortunate recipient of this gracious lady and her skill as a seamstress.
One of her greatest joys came from visiting the Great Smoky Mountains, particularly during mid-December when she could marvel at the beauty of Cades Cove and watch deer in their natural habitat. Beyond being an incredible wife and mother, she also possessed exceptional skills in the kitchen. She was renowned for the delicious meals she prepared with love and care. Her chicken and dumplings were legendary among family and friends alike; as was her rum cake. Gatherings around her table were filled with warmth, laughter and abundant joy.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers, George, Barney, Maurice and Lawrence Cavanaugh; sister, Christine Cavanaugh; and an infant sibling.
Her memory will forever be cherished by her devoted husband of 58 years, Davis T. Burt of Silver Creek; daughters, Lana Sturgon (Frank) of Puckett, Debbie Yakstis (Michael) of Brandon; sister, Dorothy Ann Divine of Canton; brother, Johnny Cavanaugh of Olo; and her legacy will also live on through her grandchildren, Erynn Sturgon, Thomas Sturgon and Maggie Yakstis.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Online condolences and a guest registry are available at www.saultersmoorefuneralhome.com. Saulters Moore Funeral Home was entrusted with arrangements
