Joanne Burns

She was the joyful light of our lives, embodying all the fruits of the spirit over her 91 years on earth: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

She was born to Willie Belle and Joe Ethard Styes of Ralph, Alabama, as the fourth sister of five with one big brother.

The family ran the community grocery store on Wesley Chapel Rd., “JE Styes Grocery.” After graduating from Tuscaloosa County High School, she married a handsome sailor, Charles Burns (deceased in 2015). Together, they raised four children and built a long life together. She worked her entire 30-year career at South Central Bell, while at the same time being a wonderful mother and wife.

She is survived by her children: Dennis Burns (Johnye), Terri Burns Wilborn (Tony), Marsha Burns Sprayberry (Jeff), and Kenny Burns (Angeline).

She served her family and community well – teaching Sunday school, helping children in their homes when new babies were born, taking care of grandchildren so parents could take a needed vacation, and so many other ways. She was always an encourager and the best listening ear. Whatever her children aspired to do, she was for them!

She was beloved by her 10 grandchildren: Matt Burns (Carla), Joanna Burns Averette (Ricky), Hannah Burns, Brett Wilborn (Lisa), Allie Wilborn Moffitt (Matt), Ashlin Sprayberry Bennett (Will), Chase Sprayberry, Anna Claire Sprayberry, Drew Burns (Sydni), and Alexandra Burns McCune (Chris).

She was so proud of each and every one of her 21 great children who adored her.

She is also survived by her sisters, Ruth Burroughs, Charlotte Quarles, and Nancy Palmer. She was predeceased by other siblings, Dalton Styes, and Doris Smith.

Pallbearers are: Ricky Averette, Will Bennett, Matt Burns, Drew Burns, Chris McCune, Chase Sprayberry, and Brett Wilborn.

The family would like to extend our sincere thanks to Dr. John Summerford for the many years of dedication to helping our mother maintain excellent health. For the last year, we appreciate the compassionate care of Amedisys Home Health, DCH Regional Medical Center, and Hospice of West Alabama.

A celebration of life service will be held on Monday, October 27, 2025, at Grant’s Creek Baptist Church in Fosters, AL, with visitation at 10:00, service at 11:00, with burial following in Grant’s Creek Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of West Alabama, 3851 Loop Road, Tuscaloosa, AL 35404.