Mary Chitwood Burtch

Mary Jane Chitwood Burtch, age 72, of Roanoke went to be with the the Lord on Thursday, April 21st, 2016. Mary Jane was born in Franklin County, Virginia on March 29, 1944, the only daughter of the late James Oliver and Wilda Chitwood. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bill. She attended the Ringling School of Art in Sarasota Florida from 1962 to 1965. Art was the passion of her life as she was a respected artist, teacher and curator. She was an active participant in the Roanoke Open Studios tour and was one of the original founders of that group. She was the finest wife, mother, grandmother and friend and will be deeply missed by all who loved and respected her. She is survived by her oldest son, James A. Burtch of Roanoke and wife Megan, and youngest son Joseph M. Burtch of Roanoke and wife Jennifer. Also surviving, are her cherished grandchildren, Madelyn, Xander and Teegan; Special Aunt, Betty Dillon; sister-in-law, Freida Chitwood, and many other loved family and friends. In lieu of flowers, her family asks that donations be made to the Taubman Museum of Art, 110 Salem Avenue SE, Roanoke, VA 24011. A memorial service will be held at St. Johns Episcopal Church in Roanoke on Wednesday, April 27, 2016 at 11:00 AM. Interment will be private at St. Johns. Arrangements by Conner-Bowman Funeral Home and Crematory, 62 Virginia Market Place Drive, Rocky Mount, Virginia 24151…540-334-5151