Eldress Annie Ruth Greene-Burgess

"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." — 2 Timothy 4:7 With deep love and gratitude, we celebrate the remarkable life and legacy of Eldress Annie Ruth Burgess, who entered eternal rest on Friday, December 5, 2025, at Riverside Regional Medical Center in Newport News, Virginia. At 95 years old, she graced this world as our Queen, our matriarch, and the glue that held our family together for generations. Born on August 28, 1930, in Darlington, South Carolina, she was the second child of the late James Greene Sr. and Ruth Yarborough Greene. Annie Ruth carried herself with grace, wisdom, dignity, and an unshakable faith that guided her throughout her life. Her Life & Education A dedicated scholar, she graduated from Mayo High School in Darlington, South Carolina, and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree from Benedict College in Columbia, South Carolina. She later moved to New Haven, Connecticut, where she laid the foundation for a strong family legacy as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother. Ministry & Service Called to ministry in July 1974, Eldress Burgess spent more than five decades serving the Lord with passion and excellence. Her theological studies included: Cobi Bible Institute Word of Faith Bible Institute Yale Divinity School (through Union Temple Unison Free Will Baptist) Hartford Seminary B.M.P. Program She faithfully served at Union Temple Free Will Baptist Church, where she was musician for the Gospel Chorus, President of the Epps Chorus, and President of the Junior Choir. In 2004, she became the Overseer of Kingdom Empowerment Ministries and Mount Moriah Tabernacle of Praise, leading with devotion, compassion, and unwavering strength. A gifted educator and exceptional seamstress, she poured her creativity and excellence into everything she touched. Even through health challenges, she remained a living testimony of courage, endurance, and trust in God. Cherished Survivors Left to honor her memory and continue her legacy are her beloved children: Dr. Deborah (Harold) Ruffin – Newport News, VA Helen Burgess – Hamden, CT Delphine Burgess – Hamden, CT Bishop Dr David R. Burgess, Sr (Lori) – Hamden, CT Bonus children: Bishop Elect Dr. DHati T. Burgess Sr. Kevin R. Burgess Sr.(Delana) Overseer Designate Eric F. Daniels Jr. Great-grandson: Kevin Burgess Jr. Personna Hall Lucresha Cole She is also survived by 17 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and Three great-great-grandchildren, her brothers-in-love Alphonso Burgess Sr., Larry Burgess, sisters-in-love Ollie Farah, Sarah Hall, Dorothy Gregg, Annette Powell, Leona Polite, Mary Ellen Bishoff. Bonus sisters Barbara Brunson, Barbara Beauford, Rachel Byrd, and Vanetta Lloyd, along with a host of extended family members and friends who were touched by her life. Preceded in Death Eldress Burgess was preceded in death by her loving and devoted husband the late Robert Burgess Jr, sister Mary Louise Greene; brothers Therodges “Doc” Greene Sr. and James Greene Sr.; her son Edward Burgess; and her great-granddaughter Kiana Brown Burgess. Though she has departed this earthly realm, her light, love, and legacy will continue to shine in all who knew her.

Eldress Annie Ruth Greene-Burgess

August 28, 1930 - December 5, 2025