Tributes have poured in for Connie Burton, who has died aged 66. She is best recognised as the sister of the late Metallica legend Cliff Burton. The devastating news was confirmed in an emotional statement from a family representative, who confirmed that Connie died on Wednesday (August 19), just two months after a fundraiser was created for "life-saving surgery."
Family confirms peaceful passing
Taking to Instagram, a rep shared: "It is with a heavy heart that we share the news, on Wednesday, August 19th at 7:50 pm, our sister Connie Burton peacefully passed away surrounded by her closest living loved ones. She looked beautiful as she lay in rest, taking her final breaths.
"The room was heavy with the spirit of her brother Cliff, her mother Jan, her brother Scott, and her father Ray."
They continued: "Connie's life mission was to share her faith and to share the legacy of her brother Cliff. She fulfilled both, up until the time of her passing. Connie proudly carried the Burton name as a badge of honour, knowing she came from Castro Valley's most legendary family."
Legacy and family tributes
Alongside photos of the 66-year-old, they added: "Connie is survived by her daughter Nicole Mercedes Brereton and her loving partner of 24 years, Harold Shannon."
"Her absence will be felt for years to come within the Cliff Burton Family. Thank you, Connie, for your love and passion. We know Cliff is excited to hug his big sister once again."
This comes after friends of Connie launched a GoFundMe to help with what they described as a "life-saving" surgery.
Fundraiser and fan reactions
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.
