James Burns

Hard-working, generous, and deeply devoted to his family, James “Jim” Burns lived a life rooted in love, service, and simple joys. He faced life’s hardships with determination, celebrated its blessings with gratitude, and never hesitated to lend a hand to anyone in need. Jim worked hard for everything he had and instilled that same work ethic and resilience in his children and grandchildren. Whether he was providing for his family, sharing stories, enjoying a card game, working with his hands, or fishing local waters with those he loved, Jim embraced every day as a gift.

Though the conflict in Europe continued to grow, 1937 inspired much to be hopeful about. The continued decrease in unemployment was welcome relief, and as the Golden Gate Bridge opening gave Americans great pride, Walt Disney premiered "Snow White and the Seven Dwarves," and J.R.R. Tolkien's fantasy novel "The Hobbit" was published. When the first blood bank opened, it revolutionized medicine and advanced modern surgery, as doctors no longer needed donors to be present during transfusion. During this time, there was also much to celebrate at home as well, as John and Juanita (Holloway) Burns welcomed their son, Jim, on August 31, in Rockwood, Tennessee.

He grew up alongside his younger brother, Robert “Bobby,” and sister, Glenda. From an early age, Jim was known for his playful spirit and mischievous streak, especially when it came to teasing his younger brother. Though life wasn’t always easy, those early years shaped the hardworking and determined man he would become.

While at the local movie theater, Jim met the love of his life, Tennga Simpson. Though only 13, they both fell hard. Jim frequently wrote Tennga notes at school proposing marriage, and she always said, "Yes." When they turned 16, the young couple decided to get married one night, despite a local judge telling them they weren't old enough to marry in Tennessee. After learning from a taxi driver where they could go to get married, they packed ten people, including Jim's parents, siblings, and Tennga's sister, into a '49 Mercury and set out to meet a preacher in Georgia. The trip had its challenges, including someone backing into their car in the parking lot and dinging the door before they left. One of the kids had to lie across the back of the car, and they got a flat tire in the middle of the night. None of the challenges thwarted their dreams. They woke the minister, and after hearing their intentions, they were married in his living room in the early hours of August 1, 1954 - beginning a beautiful marriage that would last a lifetime.

At 17, Jim enlisted in the United States Air Force. Early in his service, he battled meningitis and fought through a frightening illness that nearly took his life. After recovering, Jim continued proudly serving his country for ten years. During his military career, he was stationed throughout the United States and overseas, including Texas, Mississippi, Florida, Illinois, Germany, Korea, and beyond. He worked as an instrument technician on numerous military aircraft. His dedication and years working around jets ultimately cost him much of his hearing. While stationed in Germany, Jim and Tennga embraced the adventure of traveling. One family story Jim loved to tell was driving all the way to Paris so Tennga could see the Eiffel Tower, hauling extra gasoline cans because fuel was expensive off-base.

Though they often faced challenges along the way, Jim always found a way to make things happen for the people he loved. While stationed in Florida, he spoke fondly of driving his cars on the beach and fishing with long cane poles. Once, they left a friends car on the beach, only to come back finding it gone - it had sunk and they finally found it completely buried! While in Florida, Jim and Tennga were delighted to welcome their son, James Jr., into their lives. A couple of years later, their daughter Kathy was born while stationed in Mississippi. Following his military service, Jim built a successful career in construction and eventually owned and operated Burns Drywall. He took pride in his work and enjoyed teaching others the trade, including his son-in-law, Terry.

Jim often brought his grandchildren along to job sites, turning workdays into memories. On one occasion, while working near the river in Allegan, he brought the family to fish while he worked nearby. No matter where they went, Jim made sure everyone was included, comfortable, and taken care of. Jim had a lifelong love for cars and always had a story to tell about one he bought, sold, traded, or fixed. He enjoyed Cadillacs, pickup trucks, and just about anything with wheels. Jim also loved bowling leagues with Tennga, playing Pinochle, listening to Elvis, 1950s doo wop and country music, and spending time playing slot machines; especially on his iPad in later years.

Always dressed sharply with his slicked-back hair and polished style, Jim took pride in looking his best. He loved shopping for his family and spoiling those he loved. To his grandchildren, Jim was larger than life. He built a pool just so the grandkids could enjoy summers together, always had candy waiting for them, and made sure snacks and sandwiches were ready after swimming. He never missed an opportunity to support them at dance recitals, piano performances, or sporting events.

Jim also cherished the friendships that were built over the years, especially with neighbors Bud and Mary. The families shared countless meals, laughter, and companionship together. In his later years, Jim enjoyed riding his scooter through the neighborhood while Bud walked alongside him each day. Generous to a fault, Jim was always thinking of others. For years, he faithfully ordered gifts from Publishers Clearing House, convinced that one day the prize patrol would show up at his door with the big check. Whether anyone needed something or not, Jim delighted in giving. He loved surprising family, friends, and even visitors with thoughtful gifts, always saying, “I don’t need it — you take it.”

More than anything, Jim loved his family. He treasured every gathering, every laugh, every story, and every moment spent together. His family will forever remember his humor, kindness, love of music, and the joy he found in simply being surrounded by those he loved most.

As we celebrate Jim's life, may we find much comfort in our treasured memories. May we also find comfort in the honor of carrying Jim's legacy of hard work, steadfast companionship, and generosity forward. In each moment that we follow our hearts, confidently face life's challenges, cast our lines, share conversation with a friend, play Pinochle, cheer on our loved ones' endeavors, and listen to Elvis Presley songs with our beloved, we keep Jim's memory alive and inspiring others as he so inspired each of us.

James "Jim" Burns of Portage, age 88, died on May 21, 2026. He was preceded in death by his wife, Tennga Burns. Surviving are his children: James Burns Jr. and Kathy (Terry) Morris; grandchildren: Laura (Matt) Strong, James (Lauren) Burns III, Michael (Jennifer) Morris, Amie Sokolowski Burns, Tiffany Burns, and Matthew Burns, great-grandchildren: Taylor Sokolowski, Aubrey Sokolowski, Camryn Sokolowski, Ariana Morris, Kaiser Morris, Madi Burns, Kaden Burns and Jaxson Burns; brother Robert (Sallie) Burns, sister Glenda (Jerry) Johnson and many nieces and nephews and special friends Mary and Bud Malone.

There will be a private service at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (269) 375-2900. Private burial at Fort Custer National Cemetery with full military honors. Celebrate Jim's life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on his dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Memorial contributions may be made to The Battle Creek Veterans Administration and specify that your funds go to a patient account designated for Air Force veterans.