Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1951
DIED
2020
FUNERAL HOME
Jill Burns Obituary
Jill Burns, former kindergarten, pre-school teacher and aerobics instructor is finally at peace after a valiant fifteen year fight, into which she added as much life and living, smiles, laughter and family time as anyone could, despite her long illness of breast cancer and metastatic breast cancer of the bone.
A private funeral Mass was held Friday at Holy Family Cathedral.
Jill was a wife, mother, grammy, friend, artist, musician and philanthropist. Always happy with a smile and a mischievous twinkle in her eye, you had no idea, if she had done something ornery or just thought of something to do. Her extremely quick wit and positive attitude about everything in life, garnered her the nickname of "Pollyanna" by her immediate family and friends.
Jill loved music and was a percussionist with the TU Marching Band, the Tulsa Philharmonic and the Tulsa Community Band. Jill loved to travel around the States, Canada and Europe whether by Harley, boat, train, plane, motor home, kayak or canoe. If she saw a trail to an unknown destination, she'd follow it to the end. Running the rapids on the Colorado River for five days, kayaking alongside Orcas in the fiords of Alaska, standing on top of St. Peters Basilica in Rome, playing the Bodhran drum in a pub in Ireland with a local band, climbing glaciers in Canada or standing on the beaches of Normandy, trying to comprehend the bravery displayed seventy years ago is just a small example of her love of travel.
Jill is survived by her husband, Phil; their daughter, Jennifer; grandchildren, Julia and Devin. She is also survived by her best friend, Linda Lackner, who was the sister she always wanted. Jill's friends are countless and her family will continue her generosity.
In lieu of flowers or food, Jill asked that you support our local musicians. "That tip jar,' she would say, 'is not a spittoon." She also asked for those who can, make a donation in her name to the Tulsa Police Bagpipe and Drum Corp at tppd.org, or [email protected]
www.fitzgeraldfuneralservice.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jill Burns
Sponsored by Fitzgerald Funeral Service Ivy Chapel.
Becci King
September 21, 2024
My dear sister and roommate . I miss you so much
Becci King
September 21, 2022
I miss Jill so much. Her smile lit up any room she walked through. My thoughts and prayers are with Phil and Jennifer, especially. Hugs!
Becci and Jim
September 21, 2021
Dearest Jennifer and Phil, Jim and I treasure our memories of my sweet Chi O sister and the time we spent together with you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you both and the grandones. Know that we are available any time you want us. Love love love
Chris Worthy
September 14, 2021
Sympathy to the family. Good by, Jill. See you later.
KATHY Kirk Gilpim
September 28, 2020
So sorry to hear of Jill's passing. She was a vibrant and glowing woman always sparkling with her smile. What a loss!
Pete and Cheryl Stickney
September 27, 2020
Jill was my roommate when I lived in the Chi O house. She was a fun roomie and we had a great semester. She was a part of our wedding and a good friend. Our condolences to your family. So sorry for your loss.
Carol Vaughan
September 27, 2020
For many years, my section in Tulsa Community Band was right in front of Jill's. Her steady beat, whether she was on her trap set, or moving between several percussion instruments, always helped keep the group together. I will miss her talent, optimism, friendliness, and generosity.
Jeanie and Jerry Guhl
September 27, 2020
Phil and family - Jill was such a joy as a sorority sister to me! I loved her fun-loving personality ! Always uplifting and full of spirit ! May all the wonderful memories sustain you!
Always our love..
Janie Lyon
September 27, 2020
My memories of Jill go back to our days in Camp Fire. She was my Chi Omega little sis, but most of all I loved her bringing her students to the Indian Store in the fall. Thank you for the memories. So sorry for your loss Phil and Jennifer.
Rebecca King
September 27, 2020
I’m so sorry Phil and Jennifer. You all remain in my thoughts and prayers forever. Jim and I treasure the many years and memories we shared with you. I’ve missed you.
Maureen Pagano Adams
September 27, 2020
Phil,
Thinking about you and your family .
So sorry for your loss.
Maureen
Kathy (Moore) Sengel
September 27, 2020
Phil, I was so sorry to hear of Jill's death and so soon after your mother's.
Please know that I'm praying for Jesus' peace and comfort for you and your family.
Showing 1 - 12 of 12 results
Make a Donation
in Jill Burns's name
Memorial Events
for Jill Burns
Funeral services provided by:
Fitzgerald Funeral Service Ivy Chapel1402 South Boulder Avenue, Tulsa, OK 74119
How to support Jill's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Jill Burns's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
