Susan A. Burnside

Susan Ann (Ellison) Burnside, 71, of Malden, MA, passed away suddenly on August 10, 2025. Born and raised in Everett, Susan built a life full of love, laughter, and generosity, calling Malden home for the past 45 years.

For 43 years, she shared her life with her devoted husband, William (Bill) F. Burnside, a partnership grounded in deep love, mutual respect, and the kind of quiet devotion that needs no grand gestures to be felt. Together, they raised two daughters who were the center of her world - Heather L. Segal and her wife, Laurel of Malden and Heidi L. Gaffney and her husband, Paul of Nashua, NH.

Her role as "Nana" was one she wore with pride and joy. Her grandchildren - Paul, Delaney, Peyton, HarleeGrace, Sawyer, and Riley James (RJ)- were her heart. Whether spoiling them with gifts, sneaking them treats, or simply listening with her whole attention, Susan's love for them was endless and they were her greatest treasures.

Susan grew up surrounded by the lively chaos and comfort of a big family, sharing her childhood with her siblings Deborah, Cheryl, Gary, John, Mark, Ann and Paul, and holding close the memories of her late brothers James and Robert. Those bonds remained strong throughout her life, a source of both laughter and unwavering support.

For many years, Susan was a stay-at-home mother - the kind who never missed a school event, always had a listening ear, and somehow knew when you needed her before you even asked. When her daughters entered middle school, she began working for the Malden Public Schools Food Service Department, where she stayed for 18 years. She made more than meals there; she built friendships, brightened days, and quietly cared for others in countless small ways.

To know Susan was to love her. She was stoic and rarely showed emotion on the surface, but her actions spoke volumes. She had a deep love for shopping - not just for herself, but for others, often picking out something special simply because it reminded her of you. She was selfless to her core, thinking of others before herself without hesitation.

In keeping with Susan's wishes, there will be no formal services. Her family will hold a celebration of her life at a later date, gathering to share stories, laughter, and the love she left behind in abundance.

Susan's life was one of quiet generosity, steady love, and unwavering strength. She leaves behind a legacy not of material things, but of people who were made better simply by knowing her.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to The Canavan Research Fund online at https://ntsad.org/donate-campaigns/canavan-research-fund/ or by mail at 2001 Beacon St, Suite 204, Boston, MA. 02135