Walter Burns Jr.

August 29, 1931 – August 25, 2025

Walter Francis Burns Jr., age 93, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2025, just days before his 94th birthday. Born on August 29, 1931, to Walter and Mamie Burns, Walter lived a long and full life surrounded by family, laughter, and the simple joys he cherished.

A proud Atlanta native, Walter attended Homepark Elementary and graduated from O’Keefe High School. In his younger years, he was a talented athlete with a deep love for baseball — even earning a draft opportunity with the St. Louis Cardinals, a memory he held dear throughout his life.

Walter also enjoyed football, woodworking, yard work, and most of all, spending time with his family. Whether cheering on his favorite team, tinkering in his workshop, or tending to his lawn, he brought heart and quiet dedication to everything he did.

He was a devoted husband to the late Mary Burns, and a loving father to Valarie (Todd) Stansell and Justin (Cathy) Burns. He was preceded in death by his beloved son Wally Burns and granddaughter Keli Imperatori.

Walter was a proud grandfather to Reed and Luke Stansell, Lindsey (Daniel) South, and Alex (Robert) South, and a doting great-grandfather to London and Wyatt South, Eli Lauric, Evie Imperatori, and Emerson and Sawyer South. He is also survived by his sister Rena, and was preceded in death by his siblings Barbara Loudemilk and Neilan Burns.

Walter’s life was one marked by humility, quiet strength, and deep devotion to those he loved. He will be remembered for his steady presence, gentle wisdom, and the legacy of love and family he leaves behind.

A visitation of family and friends for Walter will be held August 29, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Horis A. Ward - Fairview Chapel, 376 Fairview Rd, Stockbridge, Georgia 30281. A celebration of life will occur August 29, 2025 at 12:00 PM, 376 Fairview Rd, Stockbridge, Georgia 30281. An interment will occur August 29, 2025 at Fairview Memorial Gardens, 164 Fairview Road, Stockbridge, Georgia 30281.