Mary Denise (Blackman) Burdick

Mary Denise Burdick, affectionately known as Denise to her family and friends, passed away with grace and peace on December 6, 2023, at the age of 64, in Midland City, Alabama. Born on February 27, 1959, in Moultrie, Georgia, Denise's life was a journey of love, creativity, and family devotion.

Denise grew up in a warm and loving family, and she carried that warmth throughout her life. She graduated from Dale County High School and went on to pursue her passion for art, graduating with an art degree with honors from Wallace Community College. Her creative spirit shone brightly in every aspect of her life, touching all who knew her.

Professionally, Denise was known for her friendly demeanor and engaging conversations, as a bartender at Boomers, where she made countless friends, and later at Phipps Cabinet Shop in Dothan, where her artistic talents were put to good use. Her work was not just a job; it was an extension of her engaging personality and her desire to bring joy to those around her.

An avid collector, Denise amassed over 1200 vinyl records, each one a soundtrack to cherished memories and moments. You could play any song and she could recall the exact album and artist.

A dedicated family person, Denise found her greatest joy in the company of her loved ones. She is survived by her devoted husband of almost 37 years, Buddy Burdick; her adoring children, Ronald Edwin Blackman (Toni), Jessica Denise Kniehase (Richard), and Rachel Lynn Bratt (Sky); and her cherished mother, Phyllis Blackman. Denise's legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren, Trent Blackman, Tyler Walters, Nick Kenyon, Nathan Blackman, Jacob Blackman, and Cassidy Saucier, who will remember her as a gentle and loving presence in their lives.

Denise was the pillar of strength for her brothers, Edward Stanley Blackman, Jr. (Margarita), Randy David Blackman (Amy), and Gary Jonathan Blackman, who will miss her deeply. The bond she shared with her nieces and nephews was profound and will be treasured in their hearts forever. She was preceded in death by her father, Edward Stanley Blackman Sr., and her sister, Kathy Lynn Reese, who no doubt welcomed her with open arms.