Billy Dean Burns

Billy Dean Burns, age 79, of Joplin, Missouri, passed away on Friday, August 22, 2025, at a local nursing home.

Billy was born on January 23, 1946, in Kansas, the son of Richard and Dorothy Burns. Billy was the second oldest of four siblings. He grew up in Garnett, Kansas, where he attended Garnett High School. Following his graduation, Billy proudly served his country in the Army. Billy served in Vietnam, where he was wounded in service and earned a Purple Heart. After returning home, he moved to Wichita and worked for many years at Excel Meat Packing Company, where he also served as President of his Union from an early point in his career.

Billy was known for his strong will, ornery spirit, and his gift for storytelling. While much of his life was filled with humor and tales that brought laughter to others, when he spoke about his service in Vietnam, it was with respect and purpose. He shared those experiences primarily at local schools, helping younger generations understand the realities of war and the sacrifices made. His family often described him as obstinate and ornery, a quality that brought both humor and challenge throughout his life. His stubborn streak was such a part of him that, at one point, he was even asked to leave a nursing home, something his family recognized as perfectly capturing his determined nature.

He also had a playful side that brought laughter to many. Before he became fully disabled, Billy would ride around on his lawn mower catching gophers for his neighbors. He loved the movie Caddyshack, and the connection between his favorite film and his real-life "business" made for many hilarious stories that family and friends still laugh about today.

In 2019, Billy moved to the Joplin area before becoming a resident at NHC, where he formed lasting bonds with the staff and other residents. He will be deeply missed by those who cared for him and appreciated his humor and tenacity. Above all, Billy loved his family, especially his grandchildren, with all his heart.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Dorothy Burns, and his oldest brother, John. He is survived by his daughters, Donna Witzman and Rhonda Falberg; his sister, Connie Demoret and husband Leon; his brother, Richard Burns and wife See; grandchildren, Dakota Witzman and wife Deborah, Shelby Witzman and husband Chris Koval, Sierra Witzman and partner Cameron Pinyan, Austin Witzman, Aleksandria Avery and husband Anthony, and Ash Falberg; five great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews, along with other extended family members and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, August 29, 2025, at Feuerborn Family Funeral Service in Garnett, Kansas. Visitation will take place from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at Feuerborn Family Funeral Service in Garnett, Kansas. Burial will follow in the Garnett Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to Garnett VFW or Joplin VFW and left in care of the funeral home.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.feuerbornfuneral.com