Cora O. Burdess
Cora O. Burdess,95, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2025, at the Hampton Woods Nursing Center in Poland, Ohio. Born in Big Run, West Virginia, the daughter of the late Harvey and Bertie (Cole) Stoneking, Cora was a woman who dedicated her life to her family and her faith.
Cora was blessed with a natural talent for hand painting, which she shared through her work at Knots Pottery, where she contributed her skills for over a decade. Her artistic sensibilities extended to her role as the owner of Burdess Green House, where she nurtured both plants and community relationships.
Cora was also a beloved Avon lady for over 50 years, known not only for her dedication to her customers but also for the warmth and joy she brought to every doorstep. She took great pride in her work and generously shared her knowledge, mentoring countless new Avon representatives and helping them find confidence and success. Her kind spirit, infectious enthusiasm, and unwavering support made her a cherished figure in both her community and the Avon family.
Her love of family was evident to all who knew her, and she cherished every moment spent with them. A devoted member of the Campground Community Church, Cora held her faith close throughout her life.
Along with her parents, Cora was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 67 years, Robert Burdess, who passed away in 2015. Cora now joins him in eternal rest along with their infant daughter, Donna Jean Burdess; and her siblings: Virginia Kuhens, Vernice Church, Violet Streets, Norma Lee Stoneking, Leanna Davis, Lacy Cane, Alvin Stoneking, Harvey “Jr” Stoneking, and Albert Lee Stoneking.
Cora leaves behind a legacy of love in her surviving family: her daughter, Diana Rock, and son-in-law Anthony of Pittsburgh, PA; her son, Robert Burdess, and daughter-in-law Darlene of East Liverpool; and her cherished grandchildren: Jennifer Pelley, Rebecca Johnson, Leah Karal, Melissa Rock, Amanda Barry, and Renee Ross. She is also survived by 10 great-grandchildren as well as her brother, Denzil Stoneking and sister-in-law, Emma Stoneking.
Visitation will take place on Tuesday, July 15, 2025 from 1-3 p.m. at the Martin Chapel of Care Funeral & Cremation Specialists in Calcutta. The funeral will follow at 3 p.m. with Pastor Tom Adkins officiating. Cora will be laid to rest beside her husband in Spring Grove Cemetery. To view this obituary, sign the guestbook, and leave condolences to the family, please visit www.carechapel.com
7/14/25