A Mass of Christian Burial for Mr. James Giles Burns were conducted at 11 a.m. Friday morning, April 26,2024, at St. Peter Catholic Church with interment following in St. James Cemetery.  Father Thomasz Golab officiated. 

Mr. Burns, age 77, entered into the eternal rest of his Lord Monday, April 22, 2024, at the Courtyard Rehabilitation Center in McComb.  Saulters Moore Funeral Home was entrusted with arrangements.

The family received friends Thursday evening, beginning at 6 p.m. until 8 p.m., with a Rosary Service beginning at 7 p.m., at St. Peter Parish Hall.

Mr. Burns was carried to his final rest by those honored to serve as pallbearers; they included Wesley Lee, Phillip Brossette, Scott Ward, John Burns, Sean Burns and Scotty Burns.

James Giles Burns was born on Sept. 6, 1946, in Jefferson Davis County to Leo and Ambrosia O’Connell Burns. 

Mr. Burns, a lifelong resident of Bassfield, was a graduate of Bassfield High School.  James spent his formative years in an era where simplicity reigned, hard work was the norm, and the rhythmic sound of picking cotton filled the air of the deep south.

He completed his high school education at Bassfield, where he laid the foundation for a life characterized by diligence and commitment.

A man of many talents and passions, James found joy in training squirrel dogs and embarking on squirrel hunting expeditions during his youth.

However, it was his unwavering work ethic and determination that defined his professional journey.

James dedicated himself to the Paper Mill industry and served as a Machine Tender for many years.

His tenure began with St. Regis and culminated with his retirement from its successor, Koch Industries. Mr. Burns was also a member of the United Steel Workers Union.  In every aspect of his life, James exemplified integrity, perseverance, and kindness.

As we mourn the loss of James G. Burns, let us also celebrate a life well-lived—a life marked by hard work, passion for nature’s wonders, and above all else, love for those around him.

May his soul find eternal peace in the arms of serenity, knowing that his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Mr. Burns is preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Ambrosia Burns and his brothers, Neil Burns and Vincent Burns.

His memory will forever be cherished by his daughters, Bridget Burns Lee (Wesley) of Bassfield, Ashley Burns  Brossette (Phillip) of Kenner, Louisiana, Ann Marie Ward (Scott) of Ringold, Georgia; his son, Justin Giles Burns (Mendie Ballard) of Bassfield; brothers, Roderick Burns of Collins, Kevin Burns of Bassfield; sisters, Margaret Lee of Ponchatoula, Louisiana  and Patricia Gordon of Brandon.  Mr. Burns also leaves behind four grandchildren, Lauren Lee, John Lee, Giles Burns and Ayden Ward.

Online condolences and a guest registry are available at www.saultersmoorefuneralhome.com.