Cathleen Burgess

LTC(Ret) Cathleen Burgess

Cathleen Burgess was born in Washington, D.C. and passed away peacefully in El Paso, Texas on March 12, 2026, after a long illness. Her life was defined by quiet strength, deep compassion, and unwavering grace.

She was raised in Bethesda and Sherwood Forest, Maryland. A true patriot, she served first in the Air Force and later in the Army Nurse Corps from which she retired having achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. To those who served beside her and learned from her, Cathleen was more than a colleague. She was a respected leader and a generous mentor, someone who guided others with patience and encouraged them to grow. Many have shared how much she taught them and how she inspired them to move forward with confidence and purpose. She was, as so many have said, “a great leader” and “a breath of fresh air.” Cathleen loved the Army, the Army Nurse Corps, her country, and her friends.

In her later years, Cathleen faced significant health challenges, yet she met them with remarkable resilience. She never allowed those challenges to diminish her spirit. She continued to embrace life fully, cherishing time with friends, enjoying evenings out, and attending music concerts that brought her joy. Her signature laughter, bright and contagious, filled rooms and lifted hearts, a sound that will live on in memory and one that those who knew her will always carry with them.

Cathleen was preceded in death by her father, William Burgess; her mother, Margaret Catherine Hammer Burgess; and her older sister, MCPO (Ret) Christine Burgess.

She is survived by her devoted partner, Bruno Macías of El Paso, Texas; her younger brother, William Burgess of Pensacola, Florida; her niece, Erin MacMillion (AJ); and her grandnephews, Noah and Tre.

Visitation will be held on April 16 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Sunset Funeral Home, 4631 Hondo Pass, with a Rosary at 6:00 p.m.

A Funeral Mass will be held on April 17 at 9:45 a.m. at Blessed Sacrament Church, 9025 Diana Drive.

Military Honors will follow at 11:00 a.m. at Fort Bliss National Cemetery.

Though her absence leaves a profound void, her memory remains a blessing to all who knew her. Cathleen’s duty is now complete, but her legacy of service, leadership, resilience, and kindness lives on in the many lives she touched and in the laughter we will never forget. She will be deeply missed, always remembered, and forever honored.

Cathleen requested donations to the Army Nurse Corps Association or Saint Jude Research Children’s Hospital or The American Kidney Fund.