Search by Name

Search by Name

Joseph David Burns

03/15/1947 - 09/09/2025

Joseph David Burns obituary, 03/15/1947-09/09/2025, Bethesda, MD

BORN

03/15/1947

DIED

09/09/2025

Joseph Burns Obituary

Rear Admiral Joseph D.Burns (Joe) was born in Philadelphia, PA in 1947 to William T. And Esther (Conowall) Burns, and passed away on September 9, 2025. He fondly recalled growing up with his older brother Tommy and two younger sisters, Susan and Patty Ann. Joe is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Bernadette, his daughters Clare and Tess, sons-in-law Paul and Muhammad, grandchildren James and Olivia, sisters Pat and Sue, brother-in-law Tommy Lippo, and many more adoring nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews, friends, in-laws, and relatives.

Joe attended West Philadelphia Catholic boys high school and then graduated from Saint Joseph's College in 1968.

His naval career began in 1969 when he was commissioned an Ensign and reported to his first assignment at the Defense Language Institute in Monterey, California, where he learned Chinese Mandarin. His early career included assignments as a Communications Evaluator with VQ-1 Danang, South Viet Nam, tours at CNSG Headquarters Washington DC, NSA/CSS Europe, Stuttgart Germany, NTTC Pensacola FL followed by a tour as the Cryptologic Officer Detailer in Arlington, VA.

RADM Burns graduated from National War College in 1983 followed by tours of duty at Naval Communications Station, Rota Spain, Commander, Sixth Fleet, Gaeta Italy and in 1987 he assumed command of NTTC Cory Station, Pensacola, FL. After his command tour, he served as the Director of Cryptology, U.S. Atlantic Command, Officer in Charge, Cryptologic Support Group and Naval Security Group Detachment, Norfolk, VA. He returned to Washington DC where he served Deputy Commander Naval Security Group Command, and as NSA Chief of Staff. In 2001 RADM Burns became the 40th Commander of the Naval Security Group Command, leading the organization from 2001 until his retirement in 2004. Under his leadership, the Naval Security Group continued its vital mission of providing timely, accurate, and relevant cryptologic support to the Navy and the joint force.

Following his retirement from the U.S. Navy, he worked with BAE Systems as Vice President for Strategic Markets for several years. His final "retirement job" was as Business Manager for the Church of the Little Flower.

Joe was quick witted, charming, incredibly smart, and on occasion, extravagant—especially when it came to family trips with his girls, whom he treasured more than anything. With Bernadette, they raised two daughters, Clare and Tess. His girls miss him deeply, but they are grateful for the wisdom, stories, laughter, love, and memories that will last forever. Joe welcomed, loved, and was proud of his sons-in-law. He eagerly embraced his promotion to "Pop Pop" a decade ago, and has been a warm, funny, patient, and completely adoring grandfather to Olivia and James, who love him just as much in return. Joe was blessed with a number of faithful canine companions over the years, most recently Nelson, who was such a comfort to him in difficult times. And before that, Ziggy "the best dog you could ever ask for".

Joe loved with an open heart and open smile. He appreciated the many small joys of life as if they were huge—to him they were.

Family—extended family and those he considered family meant everything to Joe. To be in his circle was to be celebrated, appreciated, and loved.

He really enjoyed a good party—and was often the life of them. But when it was time to go—it was time to go!

Fair winds and following seas, Admiral Burns. You are loved and missed by many!

An afternoon visitation for Joseph will be held Sunday, September 14, 2025 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Church of the Little Flower, 5607 Massachusetts Ave., Bethesda, MD 20816. A Mass of Christian Burial will occur Monday, September 15, 2025 at 12 p.m. at Church of the Little Flower.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary at sistersofihm.com/donate/memorial-honor/

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Washington Post from Sep. 13 to Sep. 15, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Burns

Not sure what to say?





2 Entries

Rudy Nedelka

Yesterday

My deepest sympathy on Joe's passing. We went to high school and college together and I slways enjoyed his company. My condolences to his family.

Ron Finlayson

September 15, 2025

Joe was a friend and mentor to me, a UK Royal Navy Lieutenant, in 1980 when I was training with the US Navy. Subsequently we continued our friendship in Washington DC where he introduced me to many interesting people who became friends. He was very intelligent and quick thinking with a great sense of humour, often seeing the funny side of tricky situations. In latter years separation by the Atlantic Ocean meant we lost touch, only re-connecting a couple of years ago. I will never forget him. Meg and I send our deepest condolences to Bernadette and the other members of Joe's family.

Showing 1 - 2 of 2 results

Make a Donation
in Joseph Burns's name

Please consider a donation as requested by the family.

Memorial Events
for Joseph Burns

Sep

14

Service

3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Church of the Little Flower

5607 Massachusetts Ave, Bethesda, MD 20816

Sep

15

Mass of Christian Burial

12:00 p.m.

Church of the Little Flower

5607 Massachusetts Ave, Bethesda, MD 20816

How to support Joseph's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Joseph Burns's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more