Lillian Casanova Burcham, age 80, passed away peacefully in The Villages, Florida, on July 4, 2026.

Lillian was born on April 21, 1946, in Brooklyn, New York, to Evelio and Lottie Casanova. She grew up in Miami, Florida, and graduated from Miami Edison High School. She continued her education at Barry University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education, and later earned a Master of Science degree in Exceptional Child Education from the Florida Institute of Technology.

As a dedicated educator, Lillian devoted 30 years of her life to teaching at Watkins Elementary School in Hollywood, Florida. Through her many years in the classroom, she touched the lives of countless children and shared her love of learning with generations of students.

Lillian is survived by her husband, Colonel Jerry Burcham, USA (Retired), of The Villages; stepdaughter Terri Burcham and stepson Thomas Burcham of Leesburg, Florida; and step-grandson Brandon Gill of Falls Church, Virginia. She is also survived by her brother, Captain Kenneth Casanova, USN (Retired), sister-in-law Bella Casanova, and niece Justine Casanova of Long Island, New York.

Lillian and Jerry moved from Key Largo, Florida, to The Villages in 2000, where they enjoyed the friendships and community they found there. She was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Leesburg (Oxford Campus) where she enjoyed singing in the choir and helping in the kitchen. She was also a member of The Villages Chapter of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society, an organization dedicated to supporting and recognizing women educators.

Lillian and Jerry enjoyed traveling throughout the United States and abroad. Together they created many cherished memories through their travels and shared experiences.

Lillian will be remembered for her devotion to her family, her faith, her service as an educator, and the kindness and compassion she shared with those whose lives she touched.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at 10:00 AM at First Baptist Church of Leesburg, Oxford Campus, 8015 SE 180th Street (CR 102), Oxford, Florida. A reception and lunch will follow at the church.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to Cornerstone Hospice in The Villages or First Baptist Church of Leesburg, Oxford Campus.