Thela Mae Burns

January 21, 1934 - December 17, 2023

With profound sadness and a deep sense of loss, we announce the peaceful passing of Thela Mae Burns on Sunday, December 17, 2023, at the respected age of 89. Her departure from this earthly realm leaves an irreplaceable void, yet her memory continues to radiate warmth and love in our hearts.

Born on January 21, 1934, in the nurturing community of Englewood, Thela Mae was the daughter of William and Lura Lee Golden. She attended Englewood High School where her lifelong passions for sewing and gardening were kindled. Thela Mae's adept hands could transform the mundane into the magnificent, a testament to her creativity and skill.

As the devoted wife of Dr. Robert Jackson Burns, a Pastor, Thela Mae embodied grace and resilience. Her unwavering support and compassionate presence were pillars of strength in their shared spiritual journey. Her role as a pastor's wife was fulfilled with remarkable dedication and profound faith, making her a source of inspiration not only to her family but also to the congregation they served.

Even in the face of multiple medical issues, Thela Mae's spirit remained undeterred. Though her ability to sew and garden grew increasingly difficult, she managed to sow beautiful memories filled with laughter and connection, even into her last days. This is a testament to her resilience and joyous spirit.

Thela Mae's impact extended beyond her immediate family, touching the lives of many in her church communities. Her legacy is echoed in the voices of numerous congregants who continue to express their admiration and gratitude over decades.

She is lovingly remembered by her husband, Dr. Robert Jackson Burns, and their devoted children and spouses: Jacky and his wife Frances, Gwen and her husband Paul, and Nancy and her husband Tom. Her light also shone brightly in the lives of her siblings who have gone before: George Golden, Anna Ruth Natter, and Bobbie Golden, with whom she shared a profound bond of love and mutual support. Thela Mae's joy was further multiplied by her cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought her immeasurable happiness.

Thela Mae's grace, kindness, and strength, coupled with her beautiful smile, had the power to illuminate even the gloomiest of days. Her legacy of love and compassion endures through those whose lives she touched, making her memory an everlasting source of inspiration and solace.

A funeral service to celebrate the extraordinary life of Thela Mae Burns will be held on Friday, December 29, 2023, at Bordwine Funeral Home, 203 Ohio Ave, Etowah, TN 37331. The family will be receiving friends from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by the funeral service at 2:00 PM. Interment will follow the service in Goodsprings Cemetery.

In tribute to Thela Mae's love for gardening, the family kindly requests that flowers be sent to the funeral home to create a living garden in her memory.

"Though she has left our sight, Thela Mae's spirit and legacy continue to shine brightly in our hearts."

We invite you to share your condolences and cherished memories of Thela Mae at www.bordwinefuneralhome.com, where we collectively honor and celebrate her remarkable life.