Marion Jean Holley-Burts, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, godmother, and friend, recently passed away peacefully surrounded by family. Born in 1947 in Fresno, California, Marion dedicated her life to education, community service, and faith.
A celebration of her life was held on Dec. 30 at Grace United Methodist Church in Los Angeles.
Marion worked with the Los Angeles Unified School District as a reading specialist, Beginning Teacher Support Trainer, and curriculum developer, but her greatest joy was being in the classroom. She taught at schools such as Westchester High School and Verbum Dei High School. Marion was instrumental in helping Jamaican immigrants prepare for the California High School Exit Exam through workshops at Grace United Methodist Church.
Beyond the classroom, Marion was a founding member of the Black Women’s Forum, a nonprofit organization of over 1,200 African American women in Los Angeles. She worked with Congresswoman Maxine Waters and cherished her roles in the NAACP Youth, Top Teens of America, and organizing high-level block parties that brought nearly 150 children together. Her passion for her children’s accomplishments shone brightly, from attending their school events to cheering on basketball state championships.
Marion had a deep love for jazz music, especially saxophones, and shared daily biblical inspiration with hundreds of people, faithfully uplifting those around her.
She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Ezunial Burts; her children, Ezunial “Eze” Burts III and Erin Burts; her daughter-in-law, Teria Burts; granddaughter, Fallyn Birlon Burts; stepson, Michael Hogan; and her cherished godchildren.
“Her life was a reflection of grace, resilience, and unwavering faith,” a family member said. “She will be deeply missed but forever cherished.”
