Obituary of Bordina Marie Burns

Bordina Marie Burns, 57 of Utica, NY transitioned to her new journey on May 26, 2019.

Bordina was born on July 14, 1961 in Rome, NY to the late Boyd and Jewell (Howard) Nelson. She was educated in Rome, NY and then relocated to Hillsboro, OH at the age of 15, where she received her high school diploma. Upon graduation she attended Southern State Community College, becoming the first black person to complete the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program in 1986. Bordina returned home to Rome, NY in November 1988, continuing her work as a nurse until her retirement.

She was a dedicated reader of the Bible with Psalm 23 being her favorite scripture. She was also an avid reader of the Daily Bread Devotional.

Bordina was full of life, she could make you laugh and uplift your spirits at a drop of a dime.  She was organized and efficient, fully comfortable with who she was and immensely proud of and loved her family. She was a great listener, easy to talk with, non-judgemental and sincerely caring for everyone.

Something that would put a big smile on her face was a fish sandwich from McDonalds, Long John Silver’s, gospel and R&B music.  

Bordina is survived by her five sons: Dr. Brad D. Nelson (Dayton, OH), Dirk Burns (Toledo, OH), Brett Winston (Amber) Captain (Taberg, NY), Brice (Samantha) Burns and Khamerin Burns of Utica, NY; six brothers: Philip Nelson (Mesa, AZ), Boyd Nelson (Rochester, MN), Harvey Nelson (Cincinnati, OH), Thomas (Jackie) Nelson and Daniel Nelson, both from Rome, NY and Marvin Nelson (Utica, NY); two aunts Carolyn (Rev. Robert) Medley (Columbus, OH), Laverne (Samuel) White (Lakewood, WA); eight grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  

Bordina is predeceased by her parents: Boyd and Jewell Nelson and her son Dante Burns. 

The family would like to acknowledge and extend their sincere appreciation to all of those who have called, visited or sent their bereavement messages during this time of grief.