James Verlon Burns entered eternal life on Friday, August 14, 2026, surrounded by his family.  He was born on August 29, 1957, in Bryan, Texas, to his parents, Alice Lou Corn Burns and Burl D. Burns.

James received his education in Franklin and was employed as a mechanic for many years at Pierce Automotive in Franklin.  James married his wife, Phyllis Davis, on February 14, 1992, and shared 22 years of marriage before her death. James was a life-long resident of Franklin and was of the Christian faith.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis Burns; his parents, Burl and Lou Burns; brother, Jack Burns, and sisters, Robbie Merle Burns and Elizabeth Stegall.

James was a hardworking man with a generous heart.  He found joy in the simple things, spending time outdoors, cheering on his favorite teams, and most of all, being with the people he loved.

He will be remembered for his sense of humor, his strong work ethic, and the way he always made others feel important.  His legacy of love will continue through his family and all who knew him.

James leaves behind to cherish his memory, daughter and son-in-law, April and Billy Hook of Franklin; sisters, Mary Nell Owens of Franklin and Oma Owens of Dayton; brother, Billy Burns of Franklin; 7 grandchildren: Alex Hook, Krista Hook, Whitney Watson, Kristin Thomas, Shelby Montelongo, Danny Hall and Jason Hall.  He is also survived by his 16 great grandchildren: Jaylynn Don Adams, Trigger Don Adams, Braelynn Paige Watson, Chase Cash Watson, Stetson James Watson, Dustin Myles Watson, Gracelynn Rea Watson, Jeylah Eve Thompson, Jamasyn Lee Thompson, Acacia Reazen Thomas, Absalom Akiro Thomas, Atlas Noir Thomas, Bentley Lee Adams, Landon Levi Hall, Danny Lavern Hall, III and Serenity Paige Hall and also many uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews.

The family invites you to celebrate the life of James Burns on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at 2:00 P.M. at the Higher Dimension Christian Center 207 West Highway 79 Franklin, Texas.