Paul H. Burros
March 6, 1945 ~ May 14, 2023
Paul H. Burros, 78, died peacefully on May 14, 2023 in Brentwood, TN. Born to Irving and Judith Burros in Brooklyn, NY, he was raised the middle of two brothers, Bob & Ed, in Belle Harbor, Queens, NY. Paul graduated from Far Rockaway High School, earned an Associate's Degree from Brooklyn College and later a Bachelor's Degree from Adelphi University. He was a salesman in his family's business, Pacific Bag and Burlap Company, which was later acquired by Hanes Industries. Paul married Lyn in 1973 and they lived in Roslyn, Long Island, NY, where they raised their children. They relocated to Tennessee in 2018 to be closer to family. Paul always had a wonderful zest for life. He enjoyed many interests, including tennis, swimming, bicycling, and reading. Paul's spiritual life was important to him over the years. He participated in church, Messianic Jewish congregations, and Bible studies. Paul is survived by his loving wife Lyn, his daughter Sarah (Irving) and grandchildren Alexander & Maya in Nashville, TN, and his son David and grandchildren Lauren, Hailey, and Farrah on Long Island, NY. The family intends to celebrate Paul's life through private gatherings in Nashville and on Long Island.
Prayers for the family
To my dad #2, thank you for welcoming me into your family so many moons ago. It is an honor to know such a great man and I will forever remember all the times we have shared together. Until I see you again…
I only met Paul and his wife briefly a few times but I was struck each time Paul’s energy and enthusiasm. He was a friendly guy. I remember his handshake and big smile. God Bless Paul. May he continue in the Light of God, helping the Lord watch over his wife and family.
My Dad was one of a kind. I would often tell friends (who didn’t know my Dad) that meeting him was an experience. He always marched to the beat of his own drum. My Dad lived by the motto, “It never hurts to ask.” In 2012, I had the idea to invite Michelle Obama to the graduation of the high school where I worked. I knew it was a long-shot, but I remembered my Dad’s motto and invited her anyway. To my amazement, she accepted my offer and spoke at graduation! My Dad considered this feat as his own personal achievement 🙂 If you heard him talk about it, you would have thought he sent the invitation himself. He was so very proud. I’m so thankful that he was able to spend the last 5 years of his life near me and my family in Tennessee. We already miss him so much.
We go back many many decades. Pat and my prayers to Lynn and Ed and the kids. My Mom was his first cousin so he was my first cousin once removed.
Sarah — I was thinking about what to write about your dad, and I was also thinking of, “It never hurts to ask”! From time to time, I joke with Brittan that I need to “channel Paul Burros” when I am trying to get up the courage to ask for something! 🙂
I was also thinking about the first time I met your dad. It was at a Mayfield parents’ weekend at the Spaghetti Factory. It was my first time meeting Mary Frances’s friends’ families, and your dad definitely made a lasting impression. I remember his strong NY accent and his big, friendly personality. 🙂
I have always enjoyed hearing your stories about your dad (e.g., his burro collection, examples of how he lived by the “never hurts to ask” motto, etc.). I am also glad I got to know him personally. I think we even made it to the point where he knew my name was Susanna instead of Stephanie. 🙂 He definitely had a zest for life, as you all said. I know you all will miss him, and I am glad that you have so many great stories about him that you can retell as you and your family remember him together. <3
Sarah, sincere condolences to you and your family, Jane (Weaver)
Sorry to hear of your loss Mrs. Laos. Condolence to you and your family. Carlene Taylor
I remember the laughter and joy Paul exhibited trying to line dance with me at Bob’s(Schneider) and my wedding in 2012. When I think of Paul I see his big smile. Comfort and peace for Paul and his family…….rest in the arms of the Savior.
I have never known anyone who radiated more joy, warmth and kindness than Paul Burros. If you struck up a conversation with him, within minutes you would feel like you were talking to a life-long friend. Growing up as a close friend of his son David, Paul always welcomed me into his home, encouraged me in my academic pursuits and made me laugh with his uproarious sense of humor. I’ll always treasure the many car rides, dinners and movie nights we shared. He treated me like a son, and I only fully realize now how much I loved him as a second dad. I will miss him dearly, but I also want to celebrate a life well-lived and the incredible legacy of love and laughter he left to us. My deepest condolences to Lyn, Sarah, David, Ed and the entire Burros family.
There isn’t enough space here to type all that i want to write about my dad, nor can my fingers type on my phone quickly enough for my liking. So for now I’ll just say how I thankful I am for so, so many great memories with my dad. He imparted so many valuable words of wisdom to me and i so fondly remember and will always cherish how much dad loved spending “quality time” with me. Dad, I promise I will follow your example with my daughters – I will always look to spend quality time with them.
Dear Paul, We are profoundly saddened by your departure. You were an individual of remarkable kindness and love, leaving a void in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing you. Your sense of humor, boundless generosity, and zest for life will forever remain in our memories. Above all, I recall with great admiration your ability to effortlessly engage in conversation with anyone, even my mother, who speaks limited English. Your conversation with her for nearly 20 minutes left an impression on me (and for sure on her) Furthermore, I extend my heartfelt gratitude for imparting to my children the joyous melodies, from the beloved tune “Dayenu” to the classic “Do, Re, Mi.” These songs now grace my ears, a testament to your influence and the lasting impact you had on our lives. In our hearts, you will always hold a cherished place, and your absence will be deeply felt. Farewell and see you on the other side.
Henry and I are sorry that Paul is gone. We enjoyed many good times together.
A Memorial Tree was planted in memory of Paul H. BurrosMy biggest memories of Paul was many years ago when he and Lyn graciously took a group of Sarah’s friends out to dinner in Hillsboro Village. He was so interested in knowing each of us and asked such engaging questions in order to do so. He was the type of person who could have a meaningful conversation with anyone, and that is such an admirable quality. He was boisterous and brought people in with that enthusiasm. He was loved by many and will be so missed.