Billy "Bill" Hoyle Burns

Billy Hoyle Burns, aged 89 and known to his family and friends as Bill, entered into the presence of his savior Jesus Christ on Feb. 27, 2025. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend who will be deeply missed.

Bill was born on November 25, 1935 in Caledonia, Mississippi to Lillian (Smith) Burns and Therman "Red" Burns. He spent his formative years in Mississippi and following his graduation from high school he moved to Washington, D.C. and began a career with the FBI, where he served for 8 years. Following his federal service, he worked for IBM in personnel management roles for another 31 years until his retirement. Throughout his career, he was known for his hard work, dedication, and passion for helping others.

But more than anything, Bill was a devoted Christian who loved Jesus. He served as a lay leader in various roles with churches and charitable organizations during his lifetime. He was a charter member and past deacon of Country and Town Baptist Church and also served as a past Director of Stewardship for the Southern Baptist Convention of Pa. and Southern N.J.. Bill also served for many years as a volunteer with China Outreach Ministries. At the time of his passing, he was a member of West Shore Evangelical Free Church.

Bill was also a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He loved spending time with his family and was always there to offer guidance, support, and encouragement. In his free time, Bill enjoyed playing golf and was also a great fan of baseball, especially his favored team the Atlanta Braves.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Emma (Kilgore) Burns, his children Jesse Burns and Lisa (Burns) Stakem and his grandchildren, Alexis and Isabella Stakem, as well as his sister Shirley (Burns) Reed of Jacksonville, Florida. He is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews.

His memory will be cherished by all who knew him.

All are welcome to join Bill’s family at his gathering of family and friends on Monday, March 10, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until time of service at 11:00 a.m. at Buhrig Funeral & Cremation, 37 East Main Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055; with Reverend Daniel Su officiating. Bill’s family invites everyone to join them for a time of food and fellowship at Buhrig’s Gathering Place (next to the funeral home) immediately following the service. Burial will be private.

Contributions in celebration of Bill’s life can be made to: West Shore Free Church,1345 Williams Grove Road, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055, westshorefree.org or to China Outreach Ministries, 555 Gettysburg Pike, A-200, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055, chinaoutreach.org .

 Bill’s family has entrusted his care to Buhrig Funeral & Cremation in Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-3421. View Bill’s memorial video and portrait, offer condolences and sympathy, share stories and memories, upload photographs and videos, light a candle and sign his official guest book by visiting Buhrig.com.