Margaret Mary Burroughs

Margaret Mary Burroughs (nee Fitzgerald) February 25, 1932 - April 28, 2024 (aged 92 years) Margaret Burroughs, beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother died in Pleasant Hill, CA Sunday, April 28, 2024. Born in Exeter, CA to Josephine and Joseph Fitzgerald, she lived most of her life in Visalia. Mom's Catholic faith was central to her identity. She attended George McCann Elementary School through 8th grade in a class of just 13 students. Later, she pursued her studies at Immaculate Heart High School and Immaculate Heart College in North Hollywood, graduating in 1953 with a teaching credential. Her years at Immaculate Heart were some of the happiest and most influential of her life. She was tremendously inspired by the brilliant nuns who taught there and who challenged the young women to reach their greatest potential. Mom maintained a strong connection to her alma mater throughout her life, attending her 70th high school reunion in 2019, alongside her close friend Margaret Hutcheson Marcroft. Mom's Visalia Unified teaching career spanned 30 years, beginning with Washington Elementary, before moving on to Elbow Creek Elementary (Taurusa campus) and finally Fairview School. She was a dedicated teacher who often taught summer school and served as a substitute teacher in retirement. Beyond teaching, mom was an active member of various organizations, including AAUW, Retired Teachers Association, St. Mary's Church (where she participated in the singles group, bible study and Eucharistic ministry), Tulare County Symphony League, Tulare County Herb Society, and others. Her ability to raise six children while juggling a full-time career remains awe-inspiring. Mom was a woman of boundless energy and determination, with an unwavering devotion to her children. She is survived by her children, Colleen Burroughs of Fresno, Joe Burroughs of Santa Rosa, Kathleen Burroughs of San Jose, Jim Burroughs of Campbell and Sarah (Sally) Burroughs of Martinez, eight grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Her son John Burroughs Jr. predeceased her. Visitation will take place Monday, May 13, from 5 - 7 PM at Salser & Dillard Funeral Home,127 E Caldwell Ave. A funeral mass will be held Tuesday, May 14 at 10:30 AM at St. Mary's Church, 608 N. Church St., followed by a noon burial at Visalia Cemetery. The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation in Margaret's name to Immaculate Heart High School () or their favorite charity. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.