Joseph Devere Burns

Published courtesy of the Cordell Beacon

© Cordell Beacon

Funeral services for Joseph Devere Burns, were held Sunday, February 16, 2003 at the Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Burns Flat, Oklahoma officiated by Reverend Jim Fisk. Services were under the direction of Jack Loftiss Funeral Home of Cordell, Oklahoma.

Joseph was born June 12, 1938 in Bradford, Pennsylvania to Clairissa and George Burns. He went to his eternal reward February 14, 2003 at the age of 64 years.

Joe met and married Elizabeth Ann Ireland on October 10, 1959. Four children were born to this union, William Joseph, David James, Daniel Lee, and Lynn Ann.

At the age of 17 he entered the United States Air Force to serve his country. While in the service he served his country both at home and abroad. He fought for his country during the Vietnam War.

He retired from active service as Master Sergeant in 1975 and returned to Dill City, Oklahoma where he served at the Clinton Sherman Air Park when it first opened. His family met and fell in love with the people and community having formed life long friendships with many of the local families.

He was employed at Fontaine Trucking Equipment Company, then was employed at Mesville Products in Burns Flat for 16 years as Human Resource Manager, building many friendships.

Joe was a loving, caring man who was completely dedicated and devoted to his wife Betty and their three surviving children.

He enjoyed traveling, camping and socializing with his many friends at the coffee shop. He had a special ability to talk with anyone and he did so.

Joe also received great enjoyment from being a grandfather to his three granddaughters, Prescilla, Samantha and Jodie and all their young friends who called him grandpa as well. He was greatly loved by all and will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his wife Betty of the home; sons David Burns and wife, Teresa of Burns Flat, Oklahoma, Daniel Burns and his wife, Lisa of Benton, Louisiana; daughter Lynn Burns of Altus, Oklahoma; granddaughters Priscilla, Samantha and Jodie; two sisters Joan Leo of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, Judith Sizemore, Altanta, Georgia; and one brother William Burns of Bradford, Pennsylvania.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son William Joseph; brothers Gerald Burns and Jim Burns; and sister Lola.