Katherine (Katy, Kathy) Burlakoff Shea passed away peacefully Friday, May 14, 2021 after a brief illness.

She was predeceased by her husband John Albert Shea, father and mother Fred and Anna Burlakoff; siblings Bill, Mary (Shedrow, Bulboff) Henry, Harry, Mike and Natalie (Ivanov); and nephew, Gregory Ivanov. Katy is survived by her daughter Patricia Shea (Gloucester City, NJ), stepsons Ronald (Carol) (Millville, NJ) and Douglas Shea (Sewell, NJ), and dear friend and fiancé Robert Karrer (Leesburg, NJ); grandchildren: John 'J.D.' (Bobbi) Shea and Scott Shea; and great granddaughter: Solesha Shea.

Originally from Riga, Latvia, her parents migrated to Rama, Saskatchewan, Canada in 1920. On their farm, they raised a family of seven children, who were educated in a one room schoolhouse. In 1940, the family moved to Millville, NJ to join the Russian Old Orthodox (Old Believers) community.

Katy's unwavering faith was first and foremost in her life, putting family and others first. Katy's life's purpose was to provide service wherever needed. Her value was most felt by giving of herself-counsel, support, hospitality, and volunteering.

She became instrumental in the growth of the Old Believers community as an organizer, Sunday school teacher and a most relied upon member of the church.

Kathy's career began in the Billing dept. at Wheaton Glass. Her attention to detail led her to create Order Editing, a quality control dept. that reviewed and corrected sales orders. She became one of the first female managers in the company. She also trained Wheaton employees in offices around the country on how to use computers.

Husband Al was involved with the Shekinah F&AM lodge in Millville, and was a past patron of the Shekinah Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star. Kathy became involved in Eastern Star, spent many years as chaplain, and worked tirelessly with others to organize chapter meals and events. In 2013, she was presented the Shining Star for exemplary service, dedication and devotion to The Order of the Eastern Star of New Jersey.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Association at alz.org, and/or to the Shekinah Lodge #58 F & A.M. , 1317 Fairton Road, Millville, NJ 08332

Viewing will be held from 7 PM to 9 PM, with Eastern Star service at 7 PM, Wednesday, May 19 at Barr Funeral Home, 2104 E. Main Street, Millville, NJ 08332.  Funeral services will be held at 9am, Thursday May 20 at St. Nicholas Russian Old Orthodox Church, 2327 Newcombtown Road, Millville, NJ 08332.Burial will follow in the church cemetery.