James Burns
Obituary
James "Jim" Lawrence Burns was born October 29, 1937 in Dallas, TX to Homer Lawrence & Melba (Rolfe) Burns and passed from this life on December 23, 2011 at the age of 74.
Jim was a man of many words and many talents. His quirky sense of humor combined with a lifetime of extraordinary experiences and common sense made itself known in almost every conversation. Although very definitely human, he was almost perfectly patient and the best of teachers. Jim was a Free Mason of the 32nd Degree, Past Master of RedFork-Brookside Lodge in Tulsa and has contributed richly to the lives of many Masons.
Jim joined the Oklahoma Banking Department in 1977 as a Bank Examiner and retired from the state in 1995. During his career with the state, he was an Instructor and Data Processing Coordinator for field activities and in the 10 years prior to his work in the regulatory field, Jim was an Auditor and Operations officer for the former Fidelity National Bank in Oklahoma City.
Although his career in banking is impressive as it stands, he was probably more well known for his time and work in music. At the time of his death, Jim had been playing Piano commercially for 58 years. He has played for and worked with some of the best talent around. Music, fraternal interests and Jim's 12 step outreach made him invaluable to his friends and the community in general. He was greatly loved and will be terribly missed.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents and is survived by a host of friends.
Jim will lie in state 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday at the Ninde Brookside Funeral Home. Graveside committal will be held 3:00 p.m. Wednesday at the Memorial Park Cemetery, Enid, OK. A memorial service will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday at All Souls Unitarian Church, Tulsa, OK.
Events
Tributes & Memories
Mr. Burns gave me away at my wedding on August 16th. 1986. Jiim was so lived by all the people who surround him.
Jim helped to pick out the music at our wedding. My husband had a very special relationship with Jim. I so hope they are back together as I'm now a widow. Time has lest me all alone as I fight back tears. One day, one fine day I will joins you two. Have fun til I see you both. I love you. Thanks for being my.Daddy. I sure wish you were here now. I'm lost without my Bobby.
Til then
Norma Atchley
Norma Atchley
I will always remember Jim, as a everlasting impact has been made on my life. He thought of others first, always volunteering in whatever area and time of life he was in. He helped others, raised monies, played piano freely worked with his gifts in people, banking, piano and making other people lives better. I ponder, smile, and ask, "How many lives did Jim affect and touch"? Many...
Frankie Feist
As I'm sure most of his close friends know, Jim was a devoted friend of Bill W. As his original sponsor,I treasure the many memories we shared, as we "trudged the Road of Happy Destiny" together, for over 34 years. He was one of the kindest, most lovable guys I have ever known. I'm sure he would be both proud and grateful to the many friends who have so graciously and lovingly assisted in the many tasks related to his final arrangements--and I, as well.
Don R. Nashert