August 1, 1924 – December 24, 2024

James Edward Burns, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, peacefully entered into eternal rest on December 24, 2024, just months after celebrating his 100th birthday in the company of family and friends. Known for his vibrant spirit and zest for life, Jim will be lovingly remembered for the joy, kindness, and laughter he brought to all who knew him.

Born on August 1, 1924, in Brooklyn, New York, to James and Anna (née Buchler) Burns, Jim, despite having lost his dad at a very young age, along with his widowed mother, survived the challenges of the great depression. At 18, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He proudly served with honor and distinction.

In 1952, Jim married his beloved wife, Esther (née Lussier), and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and devotion. They raised six children, Jim (Wendy) Burns, Richard (Kate) Burns, Patrice (Bill) Stapleton, Kevin Burns (Kathy Burns (dec.)/ Wendy Brooker), Lisa (Ron) Trella and Laura (Kris) Nielsen. They were blessed with nineteen grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren, with two more on the way!  The couple moved to Vero Beach, Florida, in 1986, where they enjoyed their golden years together. Esther passed away in 2016, after 64 years of marriage.

He had an intellectual curiosity until the end, whether it was discussing the financial markets or the latest technological advances. A passionate golfer, he achieved two hole-in-ones and tried skydiving at the ages of 93 and again at 96! In his final years, Jim found love and companionship with Carol Cummins with whom he shared six wonderful years. Survived by so many who loved him; his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and close friends, he leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and family that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, January 2, 2025 at 11:00am at St. John of the Cross Catholic Church.  The family will receive friends from 10:00am - 11:00am at the church prior to the Mass.  Burial will take place at Crestlawn Cemetery with Military Honors immediately following the Mass. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on forever in the hearts of his family and all who were fortunate enough to have known him.

Condolences may be shared online at www.coxgiffordseawinds.com