Mr. Burris had worked as the facilities and transportation director for the Illinois Center for Autism. He was a member of St. Augustine of Canterbury Catholic Church, Belleville, IL. John was a U.S. Army veteran.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John A. and Helen, nee Lambert Burris; and a sister, Doris Burrows.
Surviving are his wife, Virginia, nee Rogers, Burris, whom he married on July 18, 2015;
a son, John A. (Debra) Burris of Swansea, IL;
a daughter, DeAnna L. Richardson of Willards, MD;
four step-children, Michelle Kilzer and Beth Masloski, both of Belleville, IL,
Darren (Amanda) Kilzer of Swansea, IL,
and Jennifer (Tony) Tran of Belleville, IL;
15 grandchildren, Abby Richardson,
Mackenzie, Addison, Olivia, and Grace Burris,
Johnnie, Joey, Justin, Nicole, Devin, Jacob,
Katelyn, Brianna, Kristin, and Kayleigh;
and two sisters, Joy Freeland and Mary Volsylus.
Memorials may be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society or to the Wounded Warrior Project. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, August 28, 2015, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, August 29, 2015, at Valhalla Gardens of Memory, Belleville, IL.
Condolences Left For John Burris
It is with a heavy heart that I express my condolences to family of John Burris Sr. I had the pleasure of working with John for over 18 years at the Illinois Center for Autism. We were sad to see him retire but not as much to know that he is no longer with us. May God grant the family peace and comfort in knowing that the gentle giant is now resting in the arms of God.
Mia Stroter, OFallon, IL, 62269
Aunt Genna, my heart truly is breaking for you and the family. You have our deepest sympathy, John will live on forever in your memories. Love you
Cindy and Tony Gabner, Melbourne, FL, 32904
John and Dee Dee – I have such fond memories of your Dad while growing up at your house. I am so very sorry for your loss but trust the memories you have will bring you comfort. There is no doubt you and your families now have a personal guardian angel.
Mike Louth, Belleville, IL, 62223
May God grant the family of John Burris Sr. peace and comfort in this difficult time. I am so sorry for your loss.
Michelle Blotevogel, Troy, Illinois, 62294
I had the wonderful pleasure of meeting Mr.Burris. He taught me so many things and I will never forget him. I still can’t wrap my head around it but I want to say thank you John for coming into my life and bringing your wonderful wife also she is truly a blessing and my prayers are with your family!
Ashley Frazier, Collinsville, IL – Illinois, 62234
Virginia and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Thank you for letting us be part of your lives. Take care, Janet Laquet
Janet Laquet, Smithton, IL, 62285
Belleville VFW Post 1739 and I would like to give our condolence to your family John. We thank you and your family for yours and their service to our country and your support of our veterans.
Robert Thomas, Swansea, Illinois, 62226
I remember John, his mother Helen and his father John at their home in E. St Louis. John’s dad liked to watch the car dealer sell cars outside of his window. I can remember flipping baseball cards with John when I was around 6 to 8 years old. My mom, Betty Marlen (Small) was close to the family and John’s sister Doris. Doris was our babysitter when we were young. They where all very nice people. I lost track of them over time but I was glad John had a good life and was a Christian. My condolences to the family.
Scotty Marlen, Wichita, KS, 67230