Joseph David Burns

Rear Admiral Joseph D.Burns (Joe) was born in Philadelphia in 1947 to William T. And Esther (Conowall) Burns. He fondly recalled growing up with his older brother Tommy and two younger sisters, Susan and Patty Ann. Joe is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Bernadette, his daughters Clare and Tess, sons-in-law Paul and Muhammad, grandchildren James and Olivia, sisters Pat and Sue, brother-in-law Tommy Lippo, and many more adoring nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews, friends, in-laws, and relatives.

Joe attended West Philadelphia Catholic boys high school and then graduated from Saint Joseph’s College in 1968.

His naval career began in 1969 when he was commissioned an Ensign and reported to his first assignment at the Defense Language Institute in Monterey, California, where he learned Chinese Mandarin. His early career included assignments as a Communications Evaluator with VQ-1 Danang, South Viet Nam, tours at CNSG Headquarters Washington DC, NSA/CSS Europe, Stuttgart Germany, NTTC Pensacola FL followed by a tour as the Cryptologic Officer Detailer in Arlington, VA.

RADM Burns graduated from National War College in 1983 followed by tours of duty at Naval Communications Station, Rota Spain, Commander, Sixth Fleet, Gaeta Italy and in 1987 he assumed command of NTTC Cory Station, Pensacola, FL. After his command tour, he served as the Director of Cryptology, U.S. Atlantic Command, Officer in Charge, Cryptologic Support Group and Naval Security Group Detachment, Norfolk, VA. He returned to Washington DC where he served Deputy Commander Naval Security Group Command, and as NSA Chief of Staff. In 2001 RADM Burns became the 40th Commander of the Naval Security Group Command, leading the organization from 2001 until his retirement in 2004. Under his leadership, the Naval Security Group continued its vital mission of providing timely, accurate, and relevant cryptologic support to the Navy and the joint force.

Following his retirement from the U.S. Navy, he worked with BAE Systems as Vice President for Strategic Markets for several years. His final “retirement job” was as Business Manager for the Church of the Little Flower.

Joe was quick witted, charming, incredibly smart, and on occasion, extravagant—especially when it came to family trips with his girls, whom he treasured more than anything. With Bernadette, they raised two daughters, Clare and Tess. His girls miss him deeply, but they are grateful for the wisdom, stories, laughter, love, and memories that will last forever. Joe welcomed, loved, and was proud of his sons-in-law. He eagerly embraced his promotion to “Pop Pop” a decade ago, and has been a warm, funny, patient, and completely adoring grandfather to Olivia and James, who love him just as much in return. Joe was blessed with a number of faithful canine companions over the years, most recently Nelson, who was such a comfort to him in difficult times. And before that, Ziggy “the best dog you could ever ask for”.

Joe loved with an open heart and open smile. He appreciated the many small joys of life as if they were huge—to him they were.

Family—extended family and those he considered family meant everything to Joe. To be in his circle was to be celebrated, appreciated, and loved.

He really enjoyed a good party—and was often the life of them. But when it was time to go—it was time to go!

Donations can be made to St Jude’s Children’s Hospital or the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

Fair winds and following seas, Admiral Burns. You are loved and missed by many!

An afternoon visitation for Joseph will be held Sunday, September 14, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Church of the Little Flower, 5607 Massachusetts Ave, Bethesda, MD 20816. A Mass of Christian Burial will occur Monday, September 15, 2025 at 12:00 PM at Church of the Little Flower.