thehbbc.org

Mother Louise Burnside​

"A Virtuous Woman of Faith and Service"

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Mother Louise Catherine Burnside was born on February 14, 1925, in Rice, Virginia, as the eighth of sixteen children to the late Walthall Thompson and Inez Odell (Brown) Thompson. Raised in a God-fearing home, she embraced faith early in life and became a member of Macedonia Baptist Church, where her father served as a deacon. Baptized in a country pond by the late Reverend Calvin Hill, Mother Burnside's spiritual journey began with a foundation of unwavering devotion to the Lord.

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Growing up during the era of segregation, she attended High Bridge School through the eighth grade, often walking great distances to pursue her education. Her exceptional memory, a gift from God, became a defining trait that she continues to cherish and utilize to this day. After completing her education, she worked domestically in Farmville, Virginia, commuting by train for just five cents, before moving to New York City with her sisters to further her education and opportunities. There, she graduated from high school and became a certified operating room technician, retiring from a distinguished career in 1987.

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While living in New York, Mother Burnside married the late Lester Burnside, and together they had two children, Lois Annette and Richard, both of whom are now deceased. She was blessed with six grandchildren—James, Charles, Michelle (deceased), Lois, Richard Jr., and Ronald (deceased)—and took on the selfless role of raising four of her grandchildren after the passing of their mother. Her family legacy extends to several great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

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During her time in New York, she was an active member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church in South Jamaica, Queens. In 1987, she returned to Rice, Virginia, and joined High Bridge Baptist Church, where her dedication and service blossomed. Mother Burnside has played an integral role in the church and community, contributing through countless acts of kindness and leadership.

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Notable contributions include collaborating with her late brother, Rev. Samuel Thompson, and his wife Rose to establish an Outreach Project between Newport News’ Compassion Community Church and High Bridge Baptist Church, providing clothes, toys, and food to those in need. She initiated cherished traditions such as the annual “Everybody’s Birthday Celebration” and Black History Programs.

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Mother Burnside also formed a small library of religious literature, served as church treasurer, and remains actively involved in the hospitality ministry and missionary work. Her passion for helping others extends to visiting the sick and shut-ins and supporting civic organizations such as PACE, AARP, TRIAD, and the Passover Sunday School Union. Her generosity is seen in her yearly donation of mums for church fall programs, which she later gifts to deserving individuals.

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Mother Burnside’s love for the Lord, her family, and High Bridge Baptist Church is the cornerstone of her life and service. Her unwavering faith, selfless service, and love for her church and community have made her a beacon of inspiration and respect.

 

As the beloved Mother of High Bridge Baptist Church, she exemplifies the true essence of “do for others, forget self.” Loved and admired by all ages, she continues to be a virtuous woman whose life is a testament to faith, compassion, and dedication.