Richard Lee Burdette

Richard Lee Burdette, 75, of Ashburn, Virginia, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2026. To everyone who knew him—family, friends, and all who crossed his path—he was simply Burdette, a name spoken with affection and respect.

He is reunited in eternal rest with his beloved wife of fifty years, Carolina Soares Burdette, as well as his mother Evelyn and his brother. He leaves behind his daughters, Evelyn Burdette Milton (Jeff) and Melinda Burdette Capitano (Joe), who were the pride of his life. He is also survived by three cherished grandsons—Nicholas Michael Belvin, Lee Glen Milton, and Joseph Stryker Capitano—and his first great-grandson, who was eagerly awaited and already so loved. Burdette is further survived by his second wife and devoted companion, Mary Williamson Burdette, and by his nephew Raymond Soares, who held a special place in his heart.

The United States Marine Corps shaped Burdette’s spirit in ways that lasted long beyond his time in service. The Corps became part of his identity—its values, its honor, and its brotherhood lived in him every day. He carried himself with the quiet pride of a Marine who believed deeply in duty, freedom, and doing what was right.

After the passing of his wife Carolina, Burdette returned to his home state of Virginia to be near his youngest daughter. There, he found community once again and became known at the local Senior Center as the Mahjong “king,” a title he wore with a grin and a competitive spark that brought joy to everyone around him. Burdette’s life was defined by loyalty, love, and the bonds he nurtured with those he held dear. His story lives on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know him.