Writing words that fill a small section of space that adequately commemorate the life of someone you love feels callous.  Understand that while these few paragraphs encapsulate the appropriate details shared in an obituary, they could never properly honor the man that John Coleman Burns, better known to all as Colley, was and still is.

Colley took his last breaths this side of heaven at 1:45am on Sunday August 4, 2024 surrounded by his wife, children, and closest friends. Hymns, scripture, tears, and whispers of all of the beautiful things shared together ushered him into the arms of Jesus. It was peaceful and everything he wanted in the end.

This is the part where all his schooling and monotonous information is to be shared, but what better describes the accomplishments of his life could not be found in schooling or a piece of paper that announces his completion of a program.  What best describes Colley is the word servant.  He lived his life serving others through his love of food.  If you have had the privilege of working beside him in the kitchen you know exactly what I mean.  He related to people through food.  He believed food was intimate and sharing a meal with others was the ultimate compliment.  His final venture in serving others through his business Meals with Purpose was a culmination of all of the years of growth both personally and professionally.  He had a unique opportunity to engage differently through the meals he prepared and made a difference in so many patrons' lives. We will all miss sharing in his beautiful gift.

The other part of Colley's life that we cannot fail to mention is his great growth in walking with the Lord and serving not only the public but the church.  He never hesitated to get out of bed on a Sunday morning for the last two years of his life as he fought cancer.  He was quiet, but he wanted to be in that space worshipping and fellowshipping.  He loved the Lord and the anticipation he had for heaven in those last days is something never to be forgotten.

He is survived by his wife of almost 15 years, Holly Grace Burns, and his 3 children, John Robert Burns (18), Kaytlin Grace Burns (11), Kameron Parker Burns (10), and his stepdaughter Kayce Elizabeth Kennedy (24).  He is additionally survived by his mother, Marcia Shipp Burns, and two brothers, Rusty Burns and Kirbye Burns.

In lieu of flowers, Colley requested donations be made to the education trust set up for his two youngest children.  Please contact the family directly for instructions.

Celebration of life service

Friday, August 9, 2024

Visitation 10am-12pm

Service 12pm

Morrison Heights Baptist Church – Clinton, MS