Dr. Roland L Burns

Dr. Roland L. Burns
October 16, 1940 - October 4, 2025
Roland L. Burns, father, husband, and lifelong educator passed away October 4th, 2025
at Community Hospice of Ashland, KY. He was born October 16th, 1940 in Ashland,
KY, the son of Robert D. "Bob" Burns and Charlotte (Fidler) Burns. In addition to his
parents, he was preceded by his sister, Virginia "Ginny" Burns in 2016. Survivors
include his loving wife, Margaret (Thacker) Burns, their daughter Laura Ann Burns ; both
of Rush, KY, two step-children; Amy Adkins & Andy Adkins of Catlettsburg,KY and
cousins Robin Fidler and Brenda Baker.
Following graduation from Ashland High School in 1958 he served in the US Navy as a
Radarman during the Cuban Missile Crisis.Returning to civilian life, he completed a B.A.
& M.H.E. degrees from Morehead State University and a M.S. degree from Indiana
State University. He completed his Doctoral Degree in Higher Education Administration
with a minor in Geography & Statistics from the University of Southern Mississippi.
In 1974 he returned to Morehead State University to begin a 32 year career as
professor of Geography & Natural Resources. During his career he spent a month in
Russia/Sibera which enabled him to become a regional specialist in Russian
Geography.
Dr. Burns was both a professor at Morehead State University in Morehead, KY and later
served as Director of both the Morehead State University extended campuses in
Prestonsburg & Ashland. Dr. Burns was widely known to involve his classes in the
research and public service of forestry, wildlife, and fisheries. His membership in
conservation organizations was voluminous, as was the many programs he gave
throughout the state regarding his love & extensive knowledge of wildlife. Dr. Burns was
appointed by two KY Governors as 8th District Commissioner of KY Fish & Wildlife,
serving two four-year terms.
He gained recognition for his Rush, KY farm as "Outstanding Tree Farm'' for Kentucky
as well as participated on the Jesse Stewart Foundation Board. He was also active in
the local chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution where he held office and was
a recipient of local and state medals for outstanding citizenship.
Wolfpen Woods Pioneer Village was his greatest and most loved accomplishment. The
village, made up of multiple hewn log houses, was the setting for teaching over 42,000
school children from 3 states the pioneer history and folkways during its 17 years in
operation.
Dr. Roland Burns was an incredible asset to his community and his wealth of knowledge
was passed down to all those who had the pleasure of having him as a teacher, mentor
or friend.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Community Hospice of Ashland. A
graveside service conducted by Tim Rhodes of Morehead, KY will be held for family &
friends on Friday, October 10th, 2025 at 12:00pm at Ashland Cemetery.