Mr. Tommy Joe Burns, son of Claude Burns Jr. and Myrtle Lee Smith Burns, was born on July 11, 1957, in Anson County, NC. He departed this life on Saturday, August 22, 2026 at Atrium Health Anson Hospital, Wadesboro, NC.
At an early age, Tommy Joe dedicated his life to Christ, serving faithfully as a member of the Trustee Board and the Choir. He was a member of Cedar Hill Masonic Lodge #242.
He was employed at Premiere Fibers, LLC, Ansonville, NC. Tommy Joe was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need, embodying the spirit of generosity and kindness.
A passionate fan of the Dallas Cowboys, Tommy Joe supported his team through every win or loss. Known for his sharp, vibrant and eye-catching suits, he made a statement everywhere he went. His presence was a beloved staple at choir anniversaries in Anson and surrounding counties.
Tommy Joe cherished his family, expressing his love for them every chance he got. He believed in the power of connection, always choosing to say, “see you later” instead of “goodbye.” His legacy of love and kindness will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew him.
Tommy Joe was preceded in death by his loving parents, Claude and Myrtle Burns; brother, Claude Darnell Burns III; sister and brother-in-law, Teresa Gainey (Ronalt); and sister-in-law, Darlene Burns. Their memories will forever be a part of the love and legacy he leaves behind.
Left to forever cherish the memories of Tommy Joe are his brothers: Johnny (Darlene) Burns of Polkton, NC; Terral Burns (Kendra) of Morven, NC; Pondra Burns Sr. (Angel) of Polkton, NC; and Dwight Burns Sr. (Takela) of Rock Hill, SC. A daughter he loved as his own, Chianti McGowan of Charlotte, NC; six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, whom he considered part of his family. One aunt, Minnie Lee Tillman of Washington, DC; one uncle, Albert D. Smith (Patty) of San Diego, California; a special friend, Rebecca Blue; two goddaughters, Tosha Liles and Qua Pratt of Wadesboro, NC, and a host of nieces and nephews who he loved dearly.
We will forever hold on to the memories of his laughter and love. Until we meet again, see you later, Lil Joe. ♥️
The Services to Honor the Life and Legacy of Mr. Burns will be on Saturday, August 29, 2026, 3:00pm, Smith's Memorial Chapel, 604 Salisbury Street, Wadesboro, North Carolina. Interment will be in the New Hope Christian Faith Church Cemetery, Ansonville, North Carolina.
Send flowers to the service of MR. TOMMY JOE BURNS
Mixed Spray was sent for MR. TOMMY JOE BURNS - August 27, 2026
Tommy Joe a wonderful nephew. You had the biggest heart & lived life to the fullest. You will be truly missed. Love Uncle Huck, Aunt Patty, JD & Jalen
Tommy Joe I will remember our last conversation about our Cowboys at your cousin Cynthia's house in Albemarle. It was always pure joy whenever I saw you. We both had red trucks but our hearts were Blue and Silver. Until we me again, R.I.P. Carla Ross
May God bring comfort.
I'm so sorry I couldn't say goodbye the right way just know that you was heart through the good,bad and the ugly no more peas and carrots could no one say my name like you do I was your NINA every since childhood this was my name ONE LOVE VENITA/ NINA 🙏😭❤️😘
WANT TO SEND MY CONDOLENCES TO THE BURNS FAMILY AND MAY GOD CONTINUE TO BLESS YOU!!
Love you Cuz, you will truly be missed Blondella
Sending our prayers of comfort to the family of classmate Tommy Joe Burns. You will be missed. You always had the brighter side.
To the entire Burns family, I am deeply sorry for this unimaginable loss. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. Tommy Joe will definitely be missed and remembered for his smile, just for being a genuinely nice person and his stylish attire no matter where you saw him. I told him at Walmart one day that my man friend was a Cowboy's fan, and he said he's a keeper.
SIP Tommy. You will truly be missed by all. Albert Spencer/ Deloris Gilmore
SIP Tommy. You will truly be missed by all. Albert Spencer/ Deloris Gilmore
We send our sincere condolences to the family. And Tommy will truly be missed.
SIP CUZN I'M GONNA MISS YOU
There has never been a time when you didn't greet if us with your warm joyous smile and lovable persona. We'll miss watching you move in your colorful suits that ONLY YOU could wear so well! Sorry you had to depart this world so soon! May God Bless! Rest in Peace!
So sorry for your lost. My sincerest condolences to the family. Sending hugs and strength.
Condolences going out to the Burns Family Andrew Lucy Smith and Family
Love & Prayers,
Our condolences to the Burns family 🙏🏾...
John(Cooney) & Michele Smith
Tommy Joe was a good man. May he rest in heaven. My condolences to the Burns family. ❤️
May the Lord heal your heart and comfort your family during this most difficult time
To : Johnny, Terrel, Pandra & Dwight I may not be there with you physically Iam with you mentally and spiritually . Love you all and may God give you comfort in knowing that Tommy Joe will now be residing in the Kingston of God. Unable Albert "HUCK " Smith
Condolences to the Burns family! So sorry of your loss🙏🏿 God Bless!
Tommy Joe was such a good man. Never thought anything like this would happen. He/is greatly missed. Prayers for all the family. I am so so sorry for this loss.
Uncle Tommy Joe your presence had such a strong impact; so your absence will definitely make a difference! You meant the world to me and been caring for me since I came into this world like your own as Chianti had me in tote!🖤 You didn't have to love me like you did but YOU DID! I'll forever cherish you in thought, heart and soul! I will keep your memory alive so that you may remain with us forever and days to come. I love you so much and missing you already. My Uncle Daddy🌹Rest easy Unc🙏🏾
Rest easy cuz, you were a very fun person to be around ,gonna miss you saying'What's Up Cuz' your smile and laughter brought joy to everyone,you will truly be missed , my sincere condolences to the Burns Family
Sending our prayers and condolences to the Burn family, to have known Tommy Joe you couldn't help but to love him, Vanessa Morrison as well as myself have had some blessed days and cherished memories at Premiere Fibers. Tommy Joe gave great laughter, good times, you couldn't asked for a better friend than Tommy Joe we are family. Rest easy friend, you have went from labor to reward Love always.
Sending my prayers and condolences to the Burns family during this difficult time. I only knew Tommy Joe for a brief moment, but each interaction was always pleasant. He would always ask "Who's an Eastern Star?" Then, he'd greet me with a "Hey Sister!" He treated both of my boys well. He was a joy to be around. It definitely will not be the same and he will be missed. I pray that you're getting your rest now, Uncle Tommy Joe!
To the entire Burns family. I offer my sincere condolences to you all, I was saddened to hear of the passing of your father, brother, uncle and dear friend. He is safe in the arms of our Lord and Savior.
Condolences to Dwight, Takela and the entire Burns family. You are in our prayers.
So SORRY FOR YOU ALL LOSS SENDING PRAYERS AND 🙏 LOVE YALL WAY ❤️ ALWAYS KEEP TRUSTING GOD HE GOT YOU ALL 🙏 AMEN. KATHY HAMMOND AN FAMILY
My deepest sympathy. May God give you comfort during this difficult time.
Continued prayers to the entire Burns Family, Love you All🙏🏾❤️
On behalf of Myself and the staff of the Anson County Sheriff's Office, we extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and all those affected by this loss. We stand with our community in offering comfort, strength, and support, and we hope you find peace in the memories you shared and the love that surrounds you.
Condolences to the family 🙏❤️ Tommy was a very kind person, he will definitely be missed 🙏❤️🙏❤️
To the Burns Family! I'm truly sorrow for your lost. I pray that God continue to comfort and gather the family under His wings during this difficult time. My prayers are with you all.
I been knowing Tommy Joe since elementary school, a grade higher than me. He enjoyed cutting up, talking alot and having fun. This was a shocker to hear of his loss. My sincerest condolences goes out to the family during this difficult time. 🙏🏽🙏🏽❤️
Uncle TJ, I have so many fond memories of you, from years as a little girl to now as an adult. I will carry those memories forever in my heart! You and my daddy were close friend; two of a kind, the life of any party. Even though we are distant cousins, I considered you an uncle to me and that's exactly how you treated me.
To the Burns family: We extend our deepest and sincerest condolences to all of you during your time of sorrow and despair. May God keep you close, as He provides you the peace that surpasses all understanding.
~The Harrington Family (Tommicenia, Nikki, Tara, & Steven)
The Burns family had my condolence and TJ you would be dearly missed
My condolences to the family 🙏🏿 🙏🏿
PRAYING FOR THE FAMILY. CLASSMATE AT ANSON TECHNICAL INSTITUTE ANSONVILLE, N.C. USA.
Sending our Deepest Condolences to the family Tony and Jennifer Tillman
Condolences goes out to the Burns family. So sorry for ur loss. Hang in there Johnny 🙏 for you guys we love ❤️ y'all
Sending my condolences to the Burns family. Continue to watch over me Goddaddy and I'm definitely going to miss you 😢 🙏🏾
Sending Out My Prayer & My Deepest Condolences To Mr.Tommy Burns & To The Burns Family,l Will Keep Y'all ln My Prayer,He Will Truly Be Missed.
Sending heartfelt condolences to the family. May God bless and keep you during this difficult time. RIP our friend, Gone but not forgotten. Dora & Ervin Liles
Praying for Your Family in the passing of Brother Tommy Joe Burns. It was always a pleasure to hear his voice at any given time! He is missed.
My condolences to the family praying 🙏
Sending our heartfelt condolences and praying for the family.
TO THE BURNS FAMILY, SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. MAY GOD BLESS YALL ALWAYS.JOHNNY BE STRONG AND KEEP YOUR HANDS IN GOD UNCHANGING HAND.
Sorry for your loss Cowboys gonna win this year for you RIH Bessie Teal and family
So Sorry 😢 for your loss
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.