Barbara Jeanne "B.J." Burns

Barbara "B.J." Burns, 89, of Atlanta, Georgia, passed away on Sunday, June 21, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Born in Saranac Lake, New York, B.J. was the daughter of John J. Ryan and Marguerite Buckley Ryan. She graduated from AuSable Forks High School and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from College of Saint Elizabeth. While teaching home economics in New Jersey, B.J. met and married the love of her life, John. They were married in 1961 and welcomed four children before moving to Atlanta in 1969.

As one of thirteen children, family and faith were at the center of B.J.'s life. She devoted countless hours to serving others through her volunteer work at Tucker Nursing Home and her church. After her children reached their teenage years, B.J. joined the Emory University Library System, where she worked part-time and remained for 24 years.

B.J. cherished time spent with her family, especially her grandchildren. She was a familiar presence at family gatherings, often enjoying a glass of red wine (always with ice!) while sharing stories, laughter, and her keen observations. She will be remembered for her spunk, determination, strong faith and straightforward honesty.

B.J. is survived by her husband of 65 years, John H. Burns; her four children, Robert Burns (Charles Gerolium), David Burns (Karen), Michele Burns, and Jamise Goodman (Nate); her granddaughters, Meg Goodman, Jenna Goodman, Anna Burns, and Caroline Ewald; and her grandson, Ryan Burns.

A Celebration of Life Mass will be held on July 3, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Atlanta, Georgia. A reception will follow the Mass. Memorial donations may be made to the St. Vincent de Paul Society at Donate to St. Vincent de Paul in her honor.