Kathleen B. Burns

Kathleen Marie Borzani Burns, aged 96, passed away peacefully on September 6th in Hamden, CT.

Born October 18, 1929, in Torrington, CT, Kay was the beloved child of Umbert E. and Evangeline Dayton Borzani.

A graduate of Torrington High School, Kay was also a proud alumna of Skidmore College. She later taught second grade in Thomaston, CT, and nearly earned her MSW when her fourth child interrupted those plans.

Nothing was more important to Kay than family. Supporting her husband’s professional and political goals, she moved the family from Torrington to Bloomfield to New Haven and finally to Branford, before her final years in Hamden. Kay loved hosting family gatherings and established cherished traditions that will live on as part of her legacy.

She was happiest when surrounded by her children and grandchildren, telling stories and sharing memories. Her buoyant smile and laughter will be long remembered by all who knew her.

Throughout her life Kay was passionate about theater (drama major!) both as an actor in college and community theater and as a frequent patron of Long Wharf. She also loved gardening, cooking, and needlework, creating cherished garments for her children and grandchildren. A lifelong Catholic, Kay let her faith guide her in caring for her family and community.

Kay is survived by her children, Kathleen (Bud) Lichtenstein; Robin (Doug) Henry; Nancy (Chris) Kafoglis; and Scott (Claire) Burns; grandchildren, Matt and Alex Lichtenstein; Ian and Taylor Henry; Zach and Ben Kafoglis; and Kam and Colin Burns; and great-grandchildren, Penelope Kay, Briggs, Eloise, and Jodie. Kay was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 60 years, Judge Robert P. Burns.

The family also wishes to acknowledge the loving support from all the caregivers and staff at Whitney Center and Meadow Mills in Kay’s later years.

Kay’s family will hold a private mass and burial to be followed by a celebration of life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, they request that donations be made in her honor to the American Heart Association or a local theater of your choice. Funeral arrangements are in care of Beecher & Bennett Funeral Home, 2300 Whitney Avenue, Hamden. To send condolences to Kay’s family, please see her obituary at www.beecherandbennett.com.