Deacon James M. Burns

Jimmie M. Burns , known as “James” was born on June 16, 1941 to the late Deary Burns and the late Cora Lee Johnson Burns.

A God-fearing man of integrity, James loved the Lord and served him faithfully. God’s love was demonstrated daily through his spiritual leadership and love for his family, church, work place, and community. He served in a spirit of excellence with great joy and dedication.

James had a great sense of humor and enjoyed laughing with his family and friends. His creativity was endless and was seen throughout his hobbies which included working in the yards, photography, carpentry, travel, and singing. Oh how he loved to sing! He always made time and kept in contact with his friends.

His excellent leadership skills allowed him to serve as a supervisor at Walgreens in the early 60’s and later as the Transit Manager for the Chicago Transit Authority where he worked for 38 years until retirement in 2003.

Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, James enrolled and attended Divine Word Seminary, where he studied for priesthood for 3 years. However, he was predestined to become the husband to the beloved Marian, who he married in 1979, and became a father to James, Lisa, and Coralyn. He was ordained a Permanent Deacon by Cardinal Joseph Bernardin Archdiocese of Chicago in April 1994. He faithfully served as a Deacon to St. Clotilde, Chicago, IL, Seven Holy Founder, Calumet Park, IL, and St. Donatus, Blue Island, IL. Later, he relocated to Hahira, GA and continued serving as a Deacon to St. John Catholic Church, Valdosta, GA for the last 10 years of his life. In addition, to his service to the church, he served as Chaplin at South Georgia Medical Center until his health began to fail him three years ago. James was also actively involved in his community and was a member of the Knights of Columbus 4913 4th Degree.

On Tuesday, January 7th, James was granted eternal rest from his labor.

In addition to his parents, James is preceded in death by one daughter: Coralyn Burns; Four Sisters: Lena Bibb, Eula Curry, Berdia Fisher, and Adell Moore; Two Brothers: Willie Webster and Leroy Webster.

James leaves cherished memories and a lasting legacy to his beloved and dedicated wife: Marian Burns; his two loving children: James Burns, Bluffton, SC and Lisa Burns-Norfleet (Perry), Chicago Heights, IL; Five grandchildren: Teriah, Drake, Zachary, Bryan, and Kaydence; One great grandchild: Brenden; his Godchildren: Kevin Moore, Katie Dotson (Deon), Damarco Partlow, and David Brown; two special nephews: Dr. Irvin Bibb, Jr., and Elder Patrick Webster; a special niece: Gail Bibb; his St. John Catholic Church family; and host of family and friends.

The Celebration of Life for the late Deacon James M. Burns will be Tuesday, January 14, 2020 11:00 a.m., St. John Catholic Church, 800 Gornto Road, Valdosta, GA.

Father Jude Shayo and Deacon Columbus Carter will officiate.

Public viewing, Monday, January 13, 2020, 10 a.m. to 3p.m., Godfrey Funeral Home. A wake service will follow at St. John Catholic Church from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Interment, Riverview Memorial Gardens, Valdosta, GA.

Sympathy may be expressed by signing the online registry at www.godfreyfuneralhome.net.

Personal and professional services provided by Godfrey Funeral Home, LLC.