Violet Burke Herby, previously of Jamestown, N.Y., passed away comfortably in her sleep on Oct. 16, 2012. In 2007, Violet and her husband, Norman, left their hometown of Jamestown, N.Y., to be closer to their son, Paul and family in Chanhassen, Minn.
Violet was born at home in Falconer, N.Y., on Feb. 18, 1926, the oldest daughter of Theodore and Margaret R. Burke. Violet is preceded in death by her parents; sister, Clara Rose Burke Nelson; brother, Harold Burke; and daughter Martha Susan Herby.
A 1944 graduate of Jamestown High School, Violet went on to earn her registered nursing degree at WCA Hospital in 1947. She married J. Norman Herby in September of that year, and worked as a nurse through his college years at St. Lawrence University.
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Violet Burke Herby
Violet became an active member of the First Congregational Church, eventually becoming the unofficial church historian and photographer over the next 50 years. She was an active community volunteer, choir member, caretaker of elderly relatives, and supporter to her husband's numerous political campaigns over the years.
Violet is survived by her husband, Norman, son, Paul (Susan) Herby, grandchildren, Christopher (Jocelyn) Herby, Timothy (Elisa) Herby, Caitlin Herby, and great-granddaughter Brooke Martha Herby, all of Minnesota.
A memorial service will be held in Jamestown, sometime in the future, with final burial at Sunset Hill Cemetery.
The family suggests that memorials may be made to the First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, Jamestown, NY 14701.