Leslie Jo Adams Burnham, 79, Talented Artist and Florist

Just eight days after marking her 79th birthday, Leslie Jo Adams Burnham passed away on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of artistry, community devotion, and family traditions.

Early Roots and Creative Beginnings in Michigan and Rhode Island

Born in Flint, Michigan, on October 13, 1947, to parents Burnell “Bernie” and Bette Adams, Leslie discovered an early affinity for creative expression. That path led her to the Rhode Island School of Design, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Ceramics in 1969. That same year, she married Charles D. Burnham, and the couple soon welcomed their son, Chad.

From California to Vermont and the Floral Ventures of Stowe

The family’s journey took them from California to Montpelier, Vermont, in 1973 before eventually settling in Stowe. Leslie applied her artistic talents across multiple creative ventures throughout her life. She taught art to children, worked as a professional florist, opened The Village Florist of Stowe, and later lent her expertise to Green Mountain Floral Supply.

Seventeen Years as a Steadfast Presence in Denver

In 2008, Leslie retired and relocated to Denver, Colorado, to be close to her granddaughter, Molly. For the next seventeen years, she became a steadfast presence in Molly’s daily life, volunteering in classrooms, assisting with school routines, and sharing her passion for art with students through handmade cards, custom corsages, and intricate floral bouquets. Between tending her garden and diving into a good murder mystery, she anchored her family’s calendar around handmade traditions—most notably her famous Christmas cinnamon rolls, a recipe she joyfully shared through dedicated baking parties.

Family Members Who Survive Leslie

Leslie is survived by her son, Chad D. Burnham, who is married to Jennifer Barton; her brother, Scott H. Adams, alongside Suzi Wertz; and her beloved granddaughter, Molly C. Burnham. She was preceded in death by her parents, Bernie and Bette, as well as her sister, Courtney Rae Adams, with whom she shared a close bond and many worldwide cruise travels.

Preserving a Legacy of Artistry and Holiday Baking

Her family will continue the holiday baking traditions and gatherings in her honor, preserving a legacy rooted in thoughtful gestures, artistic beauty, and the simple joy of bringing people together.