William (Bill) R. Burns, at the age of 74, passed away on June 23, 2025, in his home surrounded by his family. He was born on October 30, 1950, at St. Mary's Hospital in Kansas City, MO, to Mary J. Stolp and William R. Burns Sr. Bill joined the Navy in May 1970, serving on the USS Enterprise as an Aviation Electrician's Mate. In 1972, he later served on the USS Nimitz out of Mildenhall, Suffolk, England, as a Petty Officer.

He married his high school sweetheart, Donna L. Astin, and they were married for 49 years before she passed away in 2022. Bill then served an additional 25 years in the U.S. Air National Guard, joining in 1982 and later retiring as a Master Sergeant in 1997. In total, Bill Burns served 36 years in the military. His last tour of duty was unexpected and occurred just weeks before his full military retirement when he was called back to service due to the events of 9/11, where he served faithfully once again. Bill served in four conflicts: Vietnam, Panama Operation Just Cause, Desert Storm, and Enduring Freedom (9/11).

After fully retiring from military service, he went back to school, taking additional math classes in trigonometry and physics, which earned him the credits needed to apply for a position with the Federal Aviation Administration as an electrician. However, he was not finished serving. He dedicated his life to helping others—his country, community, family, friends, and God. For many years, he played his guitar for the Hispanic Ministry at Grace Chapel in Lancaster, CA, even though he did not speak Spanish. He loved playing music for Awana groups, GriefShare, those in nursing facilities, and special friends with disabilities. He also participated in many church choirs and received awards for his contributions through music. Music was his way of sharing the Gospel and introducing people to Jesus. He loved music and cherished sharing it with others. Bill was deeply loved by his family, friends, and community, and he will be sorely missed. He is survived by his children, Will Burns, Joylynn Burns, and Anna Burns; his grandchildren, Justin Burns, Brittney Ochoa, Christopher McLaughlin, and Sophia Cross; his siblings, Laura, Robbi, Dotti, Ronni, and Donni; and countless nieces and nephews, along with his girlfriend, Wilma, whom he loved until the end. Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Donna; his daughter, Maggie Burns; his mother, Mary Sellers; and his brother, Mike Burns.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Midwest Cremation and Funeral Services of Springfield, MO.