At 84, Jeannie does not measure life by years. She measures it by purpose.

Known to many at the Edgewater Club, Inc., a vibrant senior community serving residents of Holiday Estates and Lemon Bay Isles, Jeannie is an energetic presence with a quick smile and an unwavering dedication to honoring America’s veterans. While she may not venture far beyond her immediate community, what she accomplishes within it is nothing short of remarkable.

Jeannie is the single most active individual raising funds for Wreaths Across America in Englewood, according to Co-Coordinator Catalina Bakas. Her efforts are driven by a lifelong commitment to service and a desire to honor her late husband’s legacy.

That commitment began decades ago. In 1953, Jeannie and her husband, Dave, were stationed at Peterson Air Force Base in Colorado Springs. Dave went on to serve 22 years in the United States Air Force, retiring in 1975 as a Senior Master Sergeant. During those years, Jeannie served right alongside him, working in Civil Service at Peterson Air Force Base as the Social Coordinator and Director of the Officers’ Club, supporting service members and their families.

It was also in Colorado where Jeannie’s love for the Denver Broncos took root, a loyalty she still proudly displays today.

In 1995, Jeannie and Dave moved to Englewood, where they made their home and became active members of the community. When Dave passed away in 2011, Jeannie found ways to keep his memory and his service alive, not just in words, but through action.

To honor Dave and all who have served, Jeannie began creating patriotic ribbons and bracelets, small but powerful reminders of sacrifice and remembrance. Her handiwork became a centerpiece of fundraising efforts at the Edgewater Club, helping support Wreaths Across America and ensuring fallen veterans are remembered with dignity.

This year alone, members of the Edgewater Club donated more than $1,000 toward remembrance wreaths, which were placed at Gulf Pines Memorial Park. Each wreath represented a life remembered, a service honored, and a community united in gratitude.

Those who know Jeannie describe her as the heart and hands behind the effort. She rallies neighbors, inspires generosity, and reminds everyone around her that service does not have an expiration date.

Whether she is honoring veterans, bringing neighbors together for a cause she believes in, or cheering on the Broncos, Jeannie Burney embodies the idea that one person can make a lasting difference. Her story is a powerful reminder to the Englewood community and beyond: no matter your age, your circumstances, or the size of your world, there is always room to serve, to remember, and to make an impact.

Co-Coordinator Catalina Bakas says Jeannie’s efforts would not be possible without the spirit of generosity that defines the Edgewater Club. “I am truly thankful to the Edgewater Club community for their generous donation and continued support throughout the years of Wreaths Across America in Englewood,” she said.

Together, Jeannie Burney and the members of the Edgewater Club serve as a powerful reminder that honoring veterans is a shared responsibility and that compassion, dedication, and community support can leave a lasting legacy.

The post At Any Age, Making a Difference: Jeannie Burney’s Legacy of Service in Englewood appeared first on Englewood Review.

The theme for this year is inspired by the last words of Captain Joshua Byers, U.S. Army, killed in action in Fallujah in 2003,  as his Humvee was struck by an IED, his final command was “…Keep Moving Forward.” This is a call to action. Not just honoring the fallen, but urging communities and volunteers to continue working together, to keep supporting veterans, to keep honoring their memory, and to keep the mission alive. 

Locally, residents are invited and encouraged to attend the Wreaths Across America ceremony on Saturday, December 13 at 10 a.m. at Gulf Pines Memorial Park, 2401 Englewood Road, Englewood. There will be a motorcycle escort to Lemon Bay Historical Cemetery after the ceremony to honor those laid to rest there.

“This ceremony gives our community the chance to come together and ensure that every veteran is remembered, especially during the holiday season.” said Catalina Bakas, Wreaths Across America coordinator in Englewood. The Lemon Bay NJROTC and the Venice Middle School Young Marines will participate, continuing their long-standing roles in the event. Organizers say the students’ involvement reflects core values of leadership, respect, and commitment. Just like those set by our VFW Post 10178, American Legion Post 113 and Marine Corps Detachment 756 Charlotte County.

The ceremony will feature a musical performance by the Sky Academy Chorus directed by Marianne Cooper. A flyover by the Gulf Coast Raptors Formation Team is also scheduled, weather permitting.

Every attendees will have the opportunity to  come forward, say the name of a family member, friend, or comrade who served in the U.S. military and has died. They will then ring the VFW Remembrance Bell, and exit through a Saber Arch provided by the Lemon Bay ROTC. This way we all can honor your hero. A moving  tribute, organizers describe as a powerful act of love, respect and gratitude.

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