It is with profound sadness that the family of Briana Joy Burden announce her unexpected passing on July 28th, at the age of twenty.

Briana Joy Burden of Chicago is survived by her loving mother, Maggie, her sisters, Selena and Angie, as well as countless aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. She is preceded in death and now guided by her grandmother, Venita, and her great-grandmother, Margaret.

Briana was a spirit of light and the true joy of our family. A smart, beautiful, and empathic soul, she was loved by everyone privileged enough to know her. Briana was passionate about beauty in people and in life. Her fierce smile and generosity were contagious. Like a beautiful butterfly spreading her wings, she spread her love, humor, and laughter, which will forever be felt. She was a queen in all ways.

At her young age, she was just beginning a career in caretaking. She was selfless and leaves behind a legacy that instills the importance of generosity and love for all.

As a family, we are comforted by the reminder that it's not the years of Briana's life, but the life in her years she was given. She will forever remain in our hearts, and her memory and light will help guide us every day.