Recovering Hope from the Ashes: Burnest and Keely’s Story

Dear Friends, Family, and Compassionate Strangers,

We write to you today with heavy hearts, as our beloved brother Burnest and his devoted wife Keely have recently experienced a tragedy that has left us all reeling. On January 17, while they were away from their cherished Brooklyn Carriage House of 21 years for just 30 minutes, they returned to find their home engulfed in flames. They lost everything and are starting from scratch.

In a display of unwavering bravery and love, Burnest (a 4-year Navy Veteran) desperately attempted three times to enter the burning home to rescue their beloved dog Toshiko, a rare Soft-coated Irish Wheaten Terrier. Despite hearing Toshiko's plaintive whimpers, the thick black smoke proved insurmountable, and Burnest was unable to reach her. With a heavy heart and lungs nearly overcome with smoke, Burnest made the excruciating decision to cease his rescue efforts. Despite the valiant efforts of the Brooklyn Fire Department to save both their home and resuscitate Toshiko, tragically, both were lost to the blaze.

Prior to this devastating event, Burnest and Keely were already facing numerous challenges. They have lovingly cared for their adult son Tomio, who suffers from a debilitating mental illness, while also navigating their own health issues. Despite these obstacles, they have consistently found solace in serving others, volunteering their time and energy to those in need. Burnest, as the eldest of sibling, has always been a pillar of strength and guidance for our family, and his loyalty to both his family, friends and his employer is unmatched.

Above all, Burnest and Keely (who were Dedicated and Baptized together in 1985) have exemplified unwavering faith and devotion to their Creator, Jehovah God by seeking to honor Him in all they do and extending kindness and compassion to those around them.

Now, as they enter their golden years, Burnest and Keely face immense challenges ahead. The trauma of their experience, compounded by the profound grief of losing their beloved pet, weighs heavily upon them. While they are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support they have received from family, friends and employer thus far, the road to recovery will be long and arduous.

We humbly ask for your support during this difficult time. Your contributions will not only assist Burnest and Keely in rebuilding their lives, but they will also serve as a beacon of hope and healing in their time of need. Together, let us rally around this incredible couple who have given so much to others, and show them the love and support they deserve. Even a modest contribution compounded by numerous Families, Friends and kind strangers can make a huge difference to our dear Big Brother, Burnest and his lovely Wife, Keely!

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your generosity, compassion, and kindness.

With deepest gratitude,

The Sturdivant Family