Elizabeth Burns Woodford

March 20, 1977 – November 26, 2021

Elizabeth Burns Woodford passed from this life on November 26, 2021. She was born Elizabeth Graham Burns on March 20, 1977, in Lexington. She enjoyed growing up in rural North Middletown, KY, where she was taught first grade by her grandmother Marie Burns. Following graduation from Bourbon County High School, she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Hospitality Management from the University of Kentucky. Elizabeth thrived in the restaurant business, meeting some of her dearest lifelong friends in the process. Her career later evolved into real estate, in property appraisal and as a licensed agent. She also focused her energies on completing a renovation of Holly Hill, the Kenney family’s historic home in Paris, which held some of her fondest memories.
Elizabeth had a love for creating art, and her works were displayed in her home. Her skills as a chef created smiles and prompted friends to seek her advice. She loved sports, and was a passionate fan of both UK and the Dallas Cowboys. She was known as an “old soul” and as her friend, you probably received a unique nickname. She was a member of Central Christian Church, and a devoted volunteer for the Kids Cancer Alliance. Most meaningfully, Elizabeth devoted herself to the care of both her mother and daughter while each battled cancer. She also deeply loved her family’s two rescue dogs, Tucker and Jackson.
Elizabeth is survived by her husband, Buckner Woodford V; daughter Ella Payne Woodford, whose middle name honors her grandmother Waller; her father, Graham Franklin Burns; her sister, Meg Burns Sumpter (Brandon); her uncle, Lee Burns; And many special cousins. She was predeceased by her mother, Mary Margaret Kenney McClintock, and her loving grandparents.
Memorial Services will be held at Central Christian Church, 205 E. Short Street in Lexington, on Saturday, December 4, at 12 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to Kids Cancer Alliance or Central Christian Church, in Elizabeth’s name, Elizabeth Burns Woodford.