Crystal Delaney

Crystal Delaney (born Ernestine Burns on March 10, 1956) was one of eight children raised in the cotton fields of Mississippi. Her life began under the weight of poverty and racial injustice – she and her siblings worked, chopping and picking cotton from a young age. But they defied the path set before them with the courage, determination, and fierce love of their mother, Ruth "Honey" Burns.

That resilience became Crystal's own, shaped by Honey's bold decision to leave Mississippi in the middle of the night, bringing her children to Kansas in search of a better life.

Ernestine later chose a new name – Crystal, meaning precious – a fitting reflection of the woman she became.

She was glamourous and beautiful, with a natural charisma that drew people in. Her vibrant personality, magnetic presence, and unforgettable laugh lit up every room she entered and left a lasting impression wherever she went. With deep compassion and fierce protectiveness, Crystal devoted much of her life to serving others as a nurse. She had a gift for caring for the vulnerable – especially those with no one else to speak for them – and never hesitated to advocate for those in need. Whether it was a patient, a friend, or a stranger, Crystal showed up with courage, empathy, and purpose.

Her faith in God was a steady constant. In her later years, she completed ministry training and was proud to be known to many as Reverend Delaney.

She spent her final years in Coffeyville, Kansas – the same place her mother once brought her in search of hope. It's where she found peace, and where she was called home to God.

Crystal was preceded in death by her mother, Ruth "Honey" Burns; her siblings Milton, Aaron, and Debra Ann; and her second and third husbands, Joe Jones and Roger Delaney.

She is survived by her daughters, Bryna Rene Burns and Erika Rose Larson; her adopted son, Charles Waddle; and their father – her first husband and lifelong friend – Steve Larson. She also leaves behind her brothers Joe Lee, James Earl, and Sylvester "Sly" Burns; her sister, Hester Lee Burns; and a host of grandchildren, extended family, and dear friends.

Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Sardis First Missionary Baptist Church 708 E. 12th St, Coffeyville, Kansas 67337 officiated by Pastor Walker. A private gathering for family and close friends will follow the service. Arrangements are entrusted to David W. Barnes Funeral Home in Coffeyville.

An open celebration of Crystal's life will be held this November, where all are welcome to gather in love, laughter, and memory. Details for the November celebration will be posted at the Country Club and on her daughter's social media.

To leave condolences for the family online, visit Crystal's memorial page at www.dwbfh.com