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Thomas Robert Burns Jr.

9/18/1942 - 7/23/2024

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Obituary For Thomas Robert Burns Jr.

Thomas Robert Burns Jr., 81, of Warren, RI, passed away on Tuesday, July 23, 2024 surrounded by his loving family.

The son of the late Thomas Burns Sr. and Marietta (Mortier) Burns, the brother of the late Jackie (Burns) Janoski, and the beloved husband of Charlotte (Wilson) Burns of 60 years.

Tom spent most of his life in the Chicago area and recently moved with his wife to Rhode Island to join his daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren.

Tom proudly served his country in the U.S. Army, and built a long and prosperous career within the furniture industry, which included being a business owner. However, Tom’s biggest accomplishment was the love he gave and the impact he had on his friends and family. Tom was always generous and put the needs of others first. Countless celebrations, football games and holidays were spent with his nieces, nephews, brother and sisters and friends, which was a huge point of pride for Tom, where an open door was extended for all to come. He was a devout Christian and had a strong, lifelong faith. Those that knew Tom best would often hear him say with reflection and gratitude: “It's been a great run.”

In addition to his beloved wife Charlotte, Tom is survived by his son, Guy Burns of Waukegan, IL; his daughter, Hope Parish and her husband Sam of Barrington, RI; and his five grandchildren.

Arrangements are with Family’s Choice Cremation, 8 Schoolhouse Road, Warren. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Tuesday, August 6th at 11:00AM at Barrington Presbyterian Church, 400 County Rd., Barrington, RI 02806.

For tributes, please visit: www.familyschoicecremation.com.

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Condolences

  • 08/09/2024

    Sam Parish

    Dad didn't golf very often, work on cars, build or fix things with wood or metal. He didn't bury his nose in books, buy the latest phones or computers. He did keep up on world events, finances, and family news. I struggled with this. I thought real hobbies and learning new skills gave us purpose and focus, improved mental health and helped with stress. Dad needed this, didn't he? When he retired he described the hit it took on his self-esteem, I thought I had it figured out - "Dad you need a hobby." He might have agreed, but he didn't stop moving, or caring. He remained just as motivational, just as wise with advice, just as quick to help any of us with our current life challenges. Not much changed, and he was even more available. Dad did have a hobby, and I was blind. His purpose and focus was people and family. His hobby was social interaction and service. He was meant to be there, even when I was stuck in my own narrow focus. He was consistent and reliable. His legacy of service has already been passed on, and his kind, handsome face will never be forgotten His hobby was imprinted on the fabric of our lives.

  • 08/06/2024

    Holly

    you will be so missed Uncle Tom. until we meet again. xox-Holly

  • 08/01/2024

    Judy Kempen

    Dear Charlotte- I am so sad to hear of Tom's passing. May the peace of our Lord comfort you at this terrible time. Praise the Lord for 60 wonderful years. I will be praying for you and the family. Love, Judy Kempen

  • 07/31/2024

    Chuck Rabideau

    My thoughts and prayers go to Char and her and Tom's family and friends. Rest in peace. Chuck Rabideau LSHS classmate 1961.

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