Nora Marie Burgess

Nora Burgess, a dedicated and compassionate Registered Nurse, passed away on March 27, 2025. Born on October 4, 1947, Nora graduated from Marionville High School in 1965, pursued higher education at Missouri State University, Drury University, and received her Associate in Science for Nursing from The University of The State of New York in 1988. She devoted her career to St. John's Hospital, where she made a significant impact as an RN.

In September 1970, Nora married Bill Burgess, and together, they built a life filled with love and dedication to their community. Nora's professional achievements were numerous. She was recognized by St. John's Outpatient Physical Therapy for passing the National Lymphedema Network exam, earning the title of Certified Lymphedema Therapist in October 2001. Her dedication to her field was further acknowledged when she was listed in the National Reference Institute for Who's Who Among Young American Professionals in 1988.

Nora was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William (Bill) T. Burgess; her parents, Anna Margaret and William Scott Collier of Marionville; and her grandson, Christopher West. She is survived by her children, Theresa West, Charles (Chuck) Burgess, and Tarra Mulholland; her siblings, Julia Holt-Davison and William (Bill) Collier Jr.; her grandchild, Karissa West; three great-grandchildren Elizabeth, Daisy, and Brently; and countless other family members.

Her profound contributions to the Springfield, MO community earned her recognition from the city for her significant impact. She overcame her own struggle with lymphedema, which inspired her to seek education and dedicate her life to providing effective health treatment for individuals with this condition.

In 1997, Nora received extensive training from the Dr. Vodder School of North America, obtaining her certificate in Manual Lymph Drainage and Combined Decongestion Therapy treatments of Lymphedema. She was instrumental in establishing the Lymphedema Clinic, where she served as supervisor from 1998. Nora's compassion extended beyond her professional duties, as she treated patients who could not pay for private therapy in her home free of charge.

The mayor of Springfield recognized her accomplishments in October 2001 when she received the 2001 Salute to Health Care Award for her contributions to quality health care in the community. Nora also served as President of the Lions Club International, where she was honored for her outstanding leadership and dedicated service.

Nora's legacy of excellence and service was celebrated through 39 years of service.

Nora will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her life was a testament to dedication, compassion, and the pursuit of excellence in health care.

A Memorial Visitation will be from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Monday, April 7, 2025 at Herman H. Lohmeyer Funeral Home: 500 E. Walnut Street, Springfield, MO 65806. At 6:00 pm the Southwest Missouri Nurse Honor Guard will be preforming the Nightingale Tribute to honor Nora for her dedication to Nursing.

A Graveside service will be at 10:30 am on Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at the Marionville I.O.O.F. Cemetery, in Marionville, Missouri.

Permanent online condolences, stories and photos may be shared at www.hhlohmeyer.com.