At the age of 66, Connie Burton has passed away, a loss that has prompted an outpouring of heartfelt tributes. Best known as the sister of the iconic Metallica bassist Cliff Burton, Connie’s untimely departure was confirmed by a deeply moving statement from her family. This tragic news comes just a couple of months after a fundraising effort was launched for what was described as “life-saving surgery.” An Instagram post from a family representative read: “With profound sadness, we announce that our sister Connie Burton peacefully left us on Wednesday, August 19th at 7:50 pm, cradled by the love of those dearest to her. In her final moments, she lay beautifully serene, encircled by family.”
“The atmosphere felt rich with the presence of her brother Cliff’s spirit, alongside their mother Jan, brother Scott, and father Ray,” the statement continued. “Connie devoted her life to spreading her faith and preserving the legacy of her brother Cliff. Her dedication to these causes never wavered. She wore the Burton name with pride, a testament to her renowned family’s roots in Castro Valley.”
The note highlighted that “Connie Burton cherished everyone who shared stories of how Cliff influenced their lives. She took the time to personally respond, much like their parents, Jan and Ray, did.”
Accompanying photos of Connie were shared, noting her legacy through her daughter, Nicole Mercedes Brereton, and her beloved partner of 24 years, Harold Shannon.
The impact of her departure will resonate profoundly within the Cliff Burton Family for years to come. The message ended with a tender acknowledgment: “Thank you, Connie, for your love and passion. Cliff is surely thrilled to embrace his big sister once more in the beyond.”
This comes after friends of Connie launched a GoFundMe to help with what they described as a “life-saving” surgery.
In part, it stated: “Recently, Connie has faced a life-threatening medical crisis: severe decay in her skull that started from her teeth and has now reached her sinuses. Doctors have warned that if the decay breaks through, it could be fatal.
“The surgery she needs is urgent, and she must put down a significant amount apart from what insurance will cover.”
While a cause of death remains unknown, Metallica fans rushed to the comments with tributes as one penned: “I was just wondering how she was doing literally. Now I’m crying. But at least she’s with her parents and brothers again. I spoke to her last year on FB. RIP Connie.”
“Rest in peace, Connie Burton, may you be with your brother again,” penned a second.
Another heartbroken fan added: “Rip Connie, thank you for keeping Cliff’s memory alive. Cliff, Scott and your parents, Jan and Ray and will be so happy to be reunited with you.”
“Oh noooo!! We were hoping & praying Connie would beat her cancer. We are so very sorry to hear this news. Sending the entire Burton family & friends #LoVe & light. Gone way too soon,” added a fourth.