Additional Coverage:
- Anne Burrell’s Memorial Included ‘Big Send-Off’ of Billy Joel Karaoke With Food Network Colleagues (parade.com)
Celebrity Chef Anne Burrell Remembered in Touching, Raucous Memorial
New York, NY — Friends, family, and colleagues gathered Friday to celebrate the life of Food Network star Chef Anne Burrell, who died unexpectedly on Tuesday, June 17th, at the age of 55. The memorial service, held at the Frank E. Campbell Funeral Chapel in Manhattan, was a vibrant tribute to the chef’s boisterous personality and love of life.
Over 200 mourners attended the service, including fellow Food Network personalities Scott Conant, Amanda Freitag, Marc Forgione, and Geoffrey Zakarian. In a nod to Burrell’s signature style, guests received red Sharpies – a tribute to her habit of marking the hands of Worst Cooks in America contestants struggling with knife skills. Queen’s “Don’t Stop Me Now” played as attendees signed the memorial book, setting a celebratory tone.
Inside, the chapel was adorned with memorabilia reflecting Burrell’s passions, including a New York Rangers jersey and one of her embroidered chef’s jackets, complete with a red Sharpie clipped to the sleeve. Lyrics from Billy Joel’s “Only the Good Die Young,” a favorite of Burrell’s, were placed on each seat. The service concluded with a spirited group singalong of the Joel classic, a fitting send-off for the karaoke-loving chef.
Burrell’s husband, Stuart Claxton, and her manager, Scott Feldman, both spoke, sharing anecdotes that captured her playful spirit and generosity. Claxton fondly recalled Burrell’s self-proclaimed title as a “professional pleasure provider,” highlighting her love of a good double entendre. Feldman emphasized Burrell’s dedication to her craft, noting her ability to bring joy to every endeavor.
Following the service, several of Burrell’s colleagues shared tributes on social media. Geoffrey Zakarian posted a group photo of Chopped stars, remembering Burrell’s infectious enthusiasm and kindness.
Scott Conant penned a heartfelt message reflecting on their 30-year friendship. The outpouring of love and memories painted a picture of a beloved chef and television personality who touched countless lives with her passion, humor, and larger-than-life presence.