Mrs. Janie Burns

In His own way and for His own purpose, God called His daughter home on January 19, 2025. Janie Odessa Brown Burns, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, was born on September 14, 1938, in Beargrass, North Carolina, to the late Aaron and Dora Brown. The youngest of their children, Janie was raised with strong values of faith, love, hard work, sacrifice, and commitment to family and service, which she carried throughout her life. Janie attended E.J. Hayes High School and later pursued her passion for nursing and caregiving by completing the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) 1 and 2 programs at Martin Community College. She worked as a private duty, in-home aide in Brooklyn, New York; and upon her return to North Carolina, she was employed for over 30 years at what is currently The Carrollton of Williamston. Janie was recognized by the administration and staff for her excellent care and service on the Alzheimer’s Unit for many years. In her early years, Janie joined Cedar Hill Baptist Church and rejoined once she relocated back to Williamston years later. She attended services until her health declined. Janie’s faith in God was her comfort, unwavering source of strength, and the cornerstone of her life. You would often hear her say, “Devil you keep on messing but God keep on blessing” and “Jesus you get in the mix and devil you get out of it”. In 1954, Janie married Johnnie Ray Burns, and from their union, seven sons were born. She later spent much of her adult life in Brooklyn, where she met Lawrence Wilson, and together they welcomed two daughters. In 1988, Janie returned to Williamston with her children to care for her mother, a testament to her unwavering devotion to family. Janie was known not only for her loving spirit but also for her impeccable sense of style. She believed in always dressing to impress, effortlessly pairing stylish hats and fascinators with a sharp suit, designer purse, and the shoes to match. Whether it was for church, family gatherings, or simply a doctor’s appointment, she always exuded confidence and grace through her style. She instilled in her children and grandchildren the importance of appearance, education, and bettering themselves. She would often brag about her children and grandchildren’s accomplishments. Janie was preceded in death by her parents, Aaron and Dora Brown; four children, Johnnie Ray Burns Jr., Michael Burns, Craig Burns, and Terrell Burns; eight siblings, George Brown, Charlie Brown, Clarence Brown, Hattie Brown, Viola Brown, Blanche Brown, Ollie Moses, and Dorothy Worsley. Janie leaves to cherish her memory five loving children, Gregory Burns (Deborah) of Williamston, Kevin Burns (Sonja) of the Bronx, NY, Vincent Burns (Minnie) of Williamston, Kessha Burns Harrison (Joe) of Atlanta, and Nalalia Burns of Winterville; her dear sister, Lucille Speller of Petersburg, VA; one special goddaughter, Destiny Bonds, and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will forever remember her kindness, resilience, and unconditional love. Janie’s life was one of service, love, and faith. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

Tributes

Mrs. Janie Burns

September 14, 1938 - January 19, 2025