William F. Burns DMD

William F. Burns, D.M.D. 96, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and dedicated dentist, passed away peacefully in Manasquan, New Jersey. He lived a life of service, care, and commitment to his family, his patients, and his community.
Born in Orange NJ and raised in West Orange, NJ, Dr. Burns was the second son of Patrick J and Nancy (nee Filandino) Burns. He is predeceased by his brothers John and Patrick.
Dr Burns attended Tulane University. He enlisted in the US Navy and graduated US Navy Dental Technician's School Navy Training Center at Bainbridge Maryland. He served with the US Marine Fleet Force, Second Marine Division Dental Corpsman Second Medical Battalion.
After his military service, he graduated from Seton Hall University and earned his dental degree from Fairleigh Dickinson School of Dental Medicine. At Seton Hall, he taught biology while still a student.
As a dental resident at Mountainside Hospital in 1962, he fell in love at first sight with a young RN, Eleanor Mcinerney. Married in 1964, the two raised their three sons in Pompton Plains, NJ. For more than 30 years, he maintained private practices in Montclair and Pompton Plains, where he was known for his compassionate care and dedication to patients.
Dr. Burns also served as Director of Dental Education and Program Director for the General Practice Dental Residency Training Program at Mountainside Hospital, where he mentored many young dentists and held leadership roles throughout his career. He was active in professional organizations, including the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the American Association of Hospital Dentists.
In addition to his clinical and teaching work, Dr. Burns held several U.S. patents for dental devices and contributed to medical research as author of the prologue to Bioelectrolysis in Man.
Bill and Eleanor enjoyed their retirement at Four Seasons at Wall, where they embraced an active lifestyle and enjoyed many activities. Dr. Burns was active in The Four Seasons Marines where he started the annual Toys for Tots collection.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Eleanor, and by his three sons and their families: Jeffery and his wife Laura, and their children Brian, Shannon, and Will; James and his wife Sherry, and their children Tara, her husband Adam, and James; and William and his wife Lisa, and their children Kaylan, Emily, and William.
Dr. Burns will be remembered for his humility, kindness, and the lasting impact he had on those around him.
Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Monday, October 13, 2025, from 4-7PM at Orender Family Home for Funerals, 2643 Old Bridge Rd, Manasquan, NJ 08736. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, 10 AM at St. Denis Church, 90 Union Ave, Manasquan, NJ 08736. In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Dr. Burns' name may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, by going to www.stjude.org. To send condolences to the family, please visit www.orenderfamilyhome.net