Thomas A. Burns

Funeral services for Thomas A. "Tom" Burns, age 81, formerly of Ogdensburg, will be held on Monday, July 13, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Fox & Murray Funeral Home with Rev. Matthew Conger officiating. Calling hours will be held prior to the service from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Entombment will follow at the Oswegatchie Mausoleum.

Tom passed away peacefully on Wednesday evening at the Homestead Nursing Home in Penn Yan, surrounded by the love of his family and friends.

Tom was the kind of person who never met a stranger. Known for his warm smile, generous heart, and easygoing nature, he made everyone feel welcome. Whether sharing a laugh, lending a helping hand, or simply enjoying time with those he loved, Tom left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, proud father and grandfather, loyal friend, and an all-around genuinely nice man whose kindness touched countless lives.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Debbie; his stepchildren, Jason (Gina) McMahon of Clifton Springs and Bobbie Jo (Richard) Teriele of Ogdensburg; his cherished grandchildren, Devon (Courtney) Durham, Mia & Mason) McMahon, Xavier Teriele, Kohan Teriele, and Zachary LaFlair; his sister, Mary Pike of Cicero; his sister-in-law, Nancy (Doug) Mills of Ogdensburg; his brother-in-law, Corkey (Crystal) Hewitt of Farmington; his nephew, Kurt (Lisa) Hoffman of Cicero; his great-nephews, Erik and Brendon Hoffman of Cicero; his special friends, Leo Limoges of Ogdensburg and Heather McDonald of Ogdensburg; as well as many dear friends who became like family.

Tom was predeceased by his parents, William and Blanche (Fournier) Burns; his first wife, Lenor Flynn Burns; his stepson, Kevin McAllister; and his brother, Joseph Burns.

Born in Ogdensburg, Tom attended St. Mary's Academy, Ogdensburg Free Academy, and North Syracuse High School. He married Lenor Flynn on August 18, 1979, in Canton, and although she later passed away, Tom was fortunate to find love again when he married Deborah (Hewitt) McMahon on June 2, 2012.

Tom dedicated many years to serving others through his work. He was employed at Rockland Psychiatric Center for 18 years before returning to the North Country, where he worked another 15 years as a laborer with the Ogdensburg City School District. He also proudly served as CSEA President for the district, always standing up for his fellow workers with fairness and compassion.

A life member of the Ogdensburg Elks Club and a faithful member of St. Mary's Cathedral Parish, Tom believed in community and friendship. He enjoyed playing softball, bowling, and golfing, and rarely missed cheering on his favorite teams—the New York Yankees, New York Giants, and Syracuse Orange. Whether at a ballgame, on the golf course, or gathered with family and friends, Tom's laughter and good spirit were always close by.

Above all, Tom treasured the people in his life. His greatest joy came from spending time with family, celebrating life's simple moments, and making others smile. His legacy is one of kindness, loyalty, and love—a life well lived and a heart that will be deeply missed.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Ogdensburg Volunteer Rescue. Condolences and fond memories may be shared with the family online at www.foxandmurrayfuneralhome.com.