Edward Burlando

Obituary

We are sad to announce the passing of Edward Burlando, age 80, of Greensboro N.C. on Wednesday, July 26, 2023. Survived by siblings Albert Burlando, Diane Sopinski and Linda Lewald, son-in-laws, nieces, and great nieces and nephews. Known to many as the legendary “Sir Edward”, while serving as an etiquette educator at High Point University’s fine dining restaurant, 1924 PRIME, where he worked for over a decade. Edward’s life was as colorful as his personality. He will forever be remembered as a talented actor, chef, baker, gardener, photographer, storyteller, historian, and practical joker!

In his early life, Edward pursued his passion for acting, moving across the country – from Staten Island, N.Y. to Los Angeles, C.A. – in his early 20’s where he attended Los Angeles City College from 1965-1967. Some of his most memorable stories from those days included starring as a contestant on ABC’s The Dating Game, acting alongside fellow theater arts classmate and star Cindy Williams, and meeting numerous celebrities including Judy Garland, Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor, and Marilyn Monroe, while waiting tables at the Le Petit Escoffier restaurant at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.

In his next chapter, Edward moved to Greensboro, N.C. in 1978 and enjoyed a long career in the restaurant industry, working for several fine dining restaurants such as J. Basul Noble’s in High Point/Greensboro and Giovanni’s Italian Restaurant. In addition, he worked for a prestigious N.Y. travel agency and had the opportunity to travel the world as a trip director for doctors’ seminars. His passion for the theater continued through holding lead roles at the Carolina Theater in well-known productions like La Cage aux Folles, Dracula, and Damn Yankees.

Edward was also known for his big heart and generous spirit. He volunteered for several years at food pantries during the Thanksgiving holiday, supplied fresh vegetables to his neighbors from his bountiful garden, and was a tireless advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. His yard stood out with festive holiday decorations, a vibrant flower and vegetable garden, and most recently, a tribute to Judy Garland and the Wizard of Oz. Edward was an incredibly unique, one-of-a-kind human that touched the hearts and minds of many. He will be truly missed and never forgotten.