Connie Burton, Sister of Metallica Icon Cliff Burton Dies at 66

Connie Burton, the sister of late Metallica bassist Cliff Burton, has died. She passed away earlier this week on Wednesday (Aug. 19) at 7:50PM, according to statements shared on social media via the Cliff Burton Day and Cliff Burton Family Instagram accounts, alongside associate Jose Antonio and Nicholas.

Remembering Connie Burton’s Lifelong Dedication

The statement released regarding her passing notes that she was "surrounded by her closest living loved ones" as she took her final breaths. It added that the room felt "heavy with the spirit of her brother Cliff, her mother Jan, her brother Scott and her father Ray."

Throughout her life, Connie maintained a passionate dedication to sharing her brother Cliff’s enduring legacy. Her efforts included sharing stories as part of a 90-minute documentary on the late musician titled The Salvation Kingdom. Family and associates emphasized that she proudly carried the Burton name as a badge of honor and regularly took the time to write back to fans who shared how Cliff’s music impacted their lives.

Recent Health Challenges and Survivors

In late June, friends launched a GoFundMe campaign to assist with what was termed a life-saving surgery. The fundraising page detailed that she faced a severe medical crisis involving decay in her skull originating from her teeth and reaching her sinuses, which doctors warned could prove fatal if it broke through.

No cause of death has been publicly revealed at press time (Aug. 21). Connie Burton is survived by her daughter, Nicole Mercedes Brereton, and her partner of the last 24 years, Harold Shannon. A private service will be held at a later date.