Bobby Joseph Burns

Funeral service for Bobby Joseph Burns, 72, of Jacksonville will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the First Baptist Church of Williams. Adam Thornton, Rev. Ryan Linkous, and Rev. Mark Wilbanks will be officiating. Burial will follow the service in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM and on Friday from 1:00 PM until time of the service.
Bobby passed away on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at his home in Jacksonville surrounded by his family. He is preceded in death by his father, Edward Burns; and his brother, Billy Burns.
Left to cherish the memories of Bobby are his wife of 49 years, Gail Burns; his mother, Mary Burns; children, Candace Leigh Burns and Clint Joseph Burns (Jamie); grandchildren, Merritt Joesph Burns, Matthew Jamison "MJ" Burns, and Mallie Jean Burns; sisters, Bonita Strickland and Jane Abbott; sister in law, Brenda Burns; special family, Sean and Patti Ponder, Nick and Brooklyn Howard, Jack Ponder, Marlie Wright; and several nieces and nephews.
Bobby was a loving husband, father, Papa, and friend. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Williams. He was a beloved educator in Calhoun County for over 30 years and was the Executive Director of NAFEPA. In his role as Executive Director of NAFEPA, he influenced educators nationwide. He proudly served his country in the National Guard based in Piedmont. Bobby loved to travel, eat at The Rocket, and to support JSU. He was proud to be an alumnus of Jacksonville State University. In all of his roles in life, his most favorite title was being a proud Papa to his grandchildren, whom he loved dearly. He will be deeply missed.
Pallbearers will be Keith Faulkner, Ryan Faulkner, Ronnie Johnson, Daniel Faulkner, Corey Burns, Cody Burns, Nick Howard, and Jack Ponder.
Flowers will be accepted or donations can be made to First Baptist Church of Williams or The Kids Place daycare at Weaver Congregational Methodist Church.