BURDEN, IRIS SOUTHERN In her 88th year, Iris Southern Burden passed away on March 14, 2008 at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital in Fredericton, New Brunswick. Born in Manchestire, Lancashire, England on June 20, 1919 to Florence (Farrell) and Joseph Heaton Southern, Iris attended Louther College in South Wales. Iris is survived by sons, Christopher (Barbara), Michael (Margaret Ann), Peter (Mexie Briggs), Nicholas (Ruby); daughters, Beverley (David DeLong) Martha (Kevin Gillrie), Betty; 15 grandchildren, five great grandchildren; sister in law, Betty Woodside (George); nephews, Paul Ripley, Lee Woodside, Roy Woodside and Paul Woodside; nieces, Christine Stevenson, Allyson Woodside and Connie Woodside. She was predeceased by her husband, Paul E. Burden; daughter, Penny Morrisette; infant grandson, only sibling Constance Ripley; and parents, Joseph Southern and Florence. Enlisting in the W.A.F.F. in Gloucester, England (May, 1941), Iris was soon promoted to Section Officer. When stationed at R.A.F. Station Castle Combe, England , she met her future husband, Paul E. Burden. Married in Elkton, Maryland, U.S.A. in 1947, their life as a couple began. Recipient of the Defence Medal and War Medal, Iris served her country, England, with honor. Iris mastered everything she turned her hand to, attributing much of her love and knowledge of home making to her mother in law, Myrtle Burden, whom she dearly loved. She was know to be an expert in the kitchen and couturier in her own right, possessing a sense of style and grace that became a legend in her time. As a young bride, Iris managed the office of 'Paul Burden Limited' from their home on 679 Montgomery Street and assisted in the management of the Montgomery Street Animal Clinic. While raising children and a menagerie of animals, dashounds, Siamese cats and budgie birds to name but a few. Possessing an amazing knowledge of animal husbandry, she and Paul also breed bullmastiffs. Her love of nature and all living things was mirrored throughout her life. Iris and her late husband, Paul, raised a family of eight children yet always made room for more. As their home was the gathering place for their children's friends, seldom was there an empty seat at their table. Iris was a true matriarch, cherishing her role of wife, mother and grandmother. An accomplished athlete, Iris was an avid swimmer and diver. Her gifts in this area made her the resident 'coach' for many youngsters at Lake George, York County, NB, where she and her family spent many happy summers. Stories of the toll of Nana's school bell calling Iris and Paul's large family to meals, the Burden boat on the lake and their huge family gatherings are told to this day. A woman of substance, Iris was known for her quick wit, infectious humor and unique sense of style. As one possessing both an uncanny command of 'the Queen's English' and conviction, conversation with Iris was always stimulating! Iris was proud of her heritage and loved her country, Canada. She never missed acknowledging Armistice Day and was honored to have been a part of the war effort. Throughout her lifetime she was a member of The Fredericton Kinette Club, Capital Winter Club, Celestial Chapter #3, O.E.S., The Garrison Club, Daughters of the Nile, Royal Canadian Air Force Association, Royal Canadian Legion, Branch #4 , War Bride Association and York South Liberal Association. Honorary pallbearers are Bethany DeLong, Carl Ericson, Penny Ericson, Eric Wright, Anne Reynolds, Viola Theriault, Paul Ripley, Lee, Roy, Paul, Allyson and Connie Woodside, Lorna Smith and Olive Forbes. A memorial service (followed by a reception) will be held at York Funeral Home on Tuesday, March 18 at 2:30 p.m. Rev. Canon Tom Smith officiating. In celebration of Iris' life, the family welcome donations to The Fredericton Animal Shelter S.P.C.A., 165 Hilton road, Fredericton, NB, E3A 4K2. Personal condolences may be offered through www.yorkfh.com Iris' family are grateful for the exceptional care she received from the staff of Palliative Care and Dr. Pat Thorpe.