Bernadette Kathryn Burns

Bernadette Kathryn Burns, affectionately known as Berni, passed away on March 21, 2025, at the age of 53. Born on July 27, 1971, in Lynwood, California, Bernadette grew up in Irving, Texas, where she would create a life filled with love, laughter, and compassion.

A proud graduate of Nimitz High School, Bernadette pursued a career as a beautician, where her artistic flair and warm personality endeared her to countless clients over the years. Bernadette cherished her work and had a special way of making everyone feel valued and beautiful. Her passion for cosmetology was not just a profession; it was a reflection of her generous spirit and her desire to uplift others.

Throughout her life, Bernadette formed deep connections with family and friends. She is survived by her loving children, Kamen Scott Bentley and wife, Devyn, and Nash Bryson Burns, her mother, Linda Autrey, and her father, Tommy Burns, spouse April. Siblings, including Bradley Miller and spouse Teri, Brian Miller, Alicia Burns Baker, who was known to have shared a particularly close bond with Bernadette, brother in law Roland, Kenneth McGonnigil, spouse Maggie, Louis McGonnigil, Benjamin McGonnigil. The family tree extends further with nieces and nephews, including Tori Marbury and spouse Ja’Korine, Tarryn Faulkner, Christian Baker, Austin Baker and many more treasured relatives and friends. Among her cherished aunts and uncles are Scott Burns and spouse Brenda, Susan Parker, Elizabeth Derick, and Janice Satterfield. Her lifelong best friend since 14years old, LaJeana Lewis, each person playing a significant role in her life.

Bernadette's life was marked by humor and fond memories, such as the times her father would escape to the local park to avoid the chaos of sibling rivalry. These moments were a testament to the love that bound their family together, and they remained cherished stories that would be recounted for generations.

In her final days, Bernadette served as a live-in caretaker for Mrs. Sandra Wyatt, who welcomed her as a beloved bonus daughter and bonus sister to Cortney, Shelley and Leland. This relationship blossomed into a profound friendship, where Bernadette became an integral part of the Wyatt family, and her presence brought warmth and joy to their lives. Her ability to nurture and care for those around her was truly a gift, one that was deeply appreciated by all who knew her.

Bernadette is preceded in death by several family members, including Phillip and Edie Burns, Steven Burns, Edith Head, Brandon Miller, and Jimmy Autrey. Their memories will forever remain intertwined with hers.

A celebration of Bernadette's life will be held at the Chism-Smith Funeral Home in Irving, Texas. A funeral service is scheduled for March 31, 2025, starting at 3:00 PM followed by a visitation from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, the same day. Family and friends are invited to come together to reflect on the remarkable life of Bernadette Kathryn Burns, whose spirit and kindness will not be forgotten.