Edwin was born November 18, 1928 in El Dorado, AR to William “Herbert” and Maude Mabel (Kinard) Burns. He graduated from El Dorado High School in 1947. He then enlisted in the US Navy and worked as an Aviation Machinist, which inspired his love for airplanes. On his return to Arkansas, he met and married Allie “Sue” (McWilliams), whom he shared life with until her passing in 2007.
Edwin attended and graduated from Louisiana Tech University with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, and began his 35 year career with General Dynamics in Daingerfield, TX. He transferred to Fort Worth’s General Dynamics in 1963 (now Lockheed Martin Corp) and retired in 1992.
He was a faithful member of Wedgwood Baptist Church for 58 years, and he served as a Deacon and sang in the adult choir.
Edwin was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 55 years, Sue; sisters, Melba Helms and Doris Gandy; and brothers, Hubert Burns and Ray Burns.
He is survived by daughters, Donna Howes and Nancy Schrum; sister, Dorothy “Dottie” Cain; grandchildren, Jacob Schrum, Ph.D. (wife, Elissa), Jennifer Howes (husband, Rob) and Amanda Howes; and great grandchildren, Eli and Ridley Schrum.