Former SAHS Vice Principal, John Burson, passes away at the age of 71

ROSARY: Thursday, October 1, 7:00 p.m.

MEMORIAL MASS: Saturday, October 17, 11:00 a.m.
CELBRATION OF JOHN'S LIFE will follow the Mass next door in the parish hall.

ALL SERIVCES will be held at St. Bartholomew Catholic Church, 5100 E Broadway, Long Beach (Belmont Shore) CA, 90803. Parish Phone 562 438-3826.
Street parking only is available at the parish.

Interment will be private at Holy Cross Cemetery.


John Burson spent a lengthy career in Catholic Education teaching and as an administrator at Mater Dei H.S. in the 60’s and 70’s and then at St. Anthony in the 80’s and 90’s. John retired in the mid 90’s due to poor health. He experienced cardiac issues in retirement and also dealt with and conquered a recent battle with cancer. He was a daily communicant at St. Bartholomew’s 8 o’clock morning Mass and was in the best shape he’d experienced in his nearly 72 years. John was planning a gathering for former SAHS Principal, Sister Marion, for Saturday evening. John suffered a heart attack Friday night not long after telling a friend that he felt great. He received the Sacrament of the Sick from Msgr. Sean Flannigan while at Community Hospital. He quietly passed away Saturday evening about 6:40. May he rest in peace.

Please join all of the St. Anthony High School Community in prayer for the repose of his soul, in gratitude for the many gifts and talents John brought to his profession and most certainly for his family and friends during this most challenging time. John was an inimitable character with a spirit unlike anybody else. His presence will be missed by the many lives he touched and guided throughout his life. Details of services will be posted on this website as soon as they are known.

Notes of condolence may be sent to John's family: c/o J Johnson, 1027 Roswell #2, Long Beach CA 90804.