Sylvia Rose Burnette (née Beyer) passed away peacefully on October 9, 2026, at Baystate Hospital Springfield, Massachusetts at the age of 90.

Born and raised in South Hadley, Massachusetts, Sylvia spent many of her senior years in Clearwater, Florida, before recently residing in Westfield, Massachusetts.

Sylvia lived her life with strength, tenacity, warmth, humor, and an unwavering spirit. Deeply spiritual and devoted to her faith, she drew strength and comfort from her beliefs throughout her life. Strong-willed and determined, she faced life's challenges with remarkable resilience and grace.

Sylvia spent most of her career working for National Blank Book in Holyoke, Massachusetts. Outside of work, she found immense joy in reading her Bible and daily devotions, and she loved to travel. She especially enjoyed cruising the high seas, traveling along the Mississippi River with her sister, Eileen, and spending time with her family. Sylvia loved sharing tasty food with family and friends, sitting in the sunshine while reminiscing about her travels and treasured memories. An avid sports fan, she enjoyed cheering on her favorite teams, especially whichever team happened to be winning at the moment. Her quick wit, sense of humor, and infectious smile brought laughter and light to everyone around her.

Sylvia cherished the time she spent with her loved ones. The memories she created with them will be treasured for generations to come.

Sylvia was predeceased by her beloved husband, William H. Burnette, in 2005; her daughter, Donna Galarneau, in 1990; and her son, Steven W. Burnette, in 1957.

She leaves behind her loving children: William H. Burnette, Jr. (Linda), of Westfield, Massachusetts; Diane J. Piela (Bill), of Warminster, Pennsylvania; and Robert W. Burnette (Debra), of Chicopee, Massachusetts.

She is also survived by her eight cherished grandchildren, Brian, Jessica, Kyle, Ryan, Andrea, Madison, Mackenzie, step grandson, Zachery,  her two beloved great-grandchildren, Olivia and Jameson and her son in law Mark Galarneau.

Sylvia also leaves behind the many friends she made later in life at The Arbors Assisted Living Facility and Vantage Health & Rehabilitation, both in Westfield, Massachusetts. The staff were more than caregivers; they became treasured friends and faithful cheerleaders who celebrated her milestones and brightened her days. Her family is deeply grateful for the kindness, compassion, and sense of belonging they provided, making Sylvia feel like part of their family. No matter where she lived, Sylvia had a special gift for making friends with her sense of humor and a smile that could light up an entire room.

In lieu of flowers, if so inclined, please donate to your favorite charity in Sylvia’s name.

Calling hours are Friday, October 23, 2026, from 4-7pm at O'Brien Funeral Home, 33 Lamb Street, South Hadley, Massachusetts. Family and friends are invited to a graveside service on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 11am at South Hadley Falls Cemetery, Cemetery Ave, South Hadley, Massachusetts.