Obituary of Robert Samuel Burrows

December 11, 1931 – September 12, 2025

Robert Samuel Burrows, 93, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2025, at Delaney in Bridgewater, surrounded by the love of his family. Born in Irvington, NJ, on December 11, 1931, he was the cherished son of Emma C. Martin and Samuel H. Burrows.

A proud graduate of Seton Hall University, Class of 1956, Robert went on to live a life marked by service, devotion, and joy. On November 16, 1957, he married the love of his life, Eleanor Lang, and together they shared 68 beautiful years of marriage built on faith, commitment, and love.

Robert served his country honorably as a 2nd Lieutenant before beginning a fulfilling career as a teacher in the Basking Ridge School System. He inspired not only his students but also countless athletes as a passionate coach of both basketball and baseball. An accomplished athlete himself, Robert once played shortstop for the Milwaukee Braves organization, a testament to his lifelong love of sports.

A devout Roman Catholic and faithful parishioner of St. Joseph Church in Bound Brook, Robert’s life was centered around his faith and his family. He loved traveling with Eleanor and treasured time spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him immeasurable joy.

Robert is survived by his devoted wife, Eleanor; his daughters Virginia (Kevin) Shanahan, Patricia (George) Cardona, Donna (Victor) Sharkey, and Pamela (Eugene) Franchino; as well as his loving 14 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren, who were the light of his later years. He was predeceased by his parents; his sisters, Lorraine Farrell and Jean Burrows; and his brother, Leo Burrows.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Robert’s life on Monday, September 15, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the Martin Funeral Home, 1761 Route 31, Clinton, NJ 08809. A Funeral Mass will be offered on Tuesday, September 16, at 10:00 AMat Immaculate Conception Church, 316 Old Allerton Road, Annandale, NJ 08801. Entombment will follow in the church mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the [Dessh Network] in Robert’s memory. http://www.dessh.org/donate

Robert’s life was defined by faith, family, and service. He will be lovingly remembered for his kindness, his love of sports, and his unwavering dedication to those he cherished most.