Betty Lou Burns

November 19, 1926 - May 30, 2016

Betty L. Burns, age 89, of Marion, IL passed away peacefully at 8:35 a.m. on Monday, May 30, 2016, in Marion. She was born on Friday, November 19, 1926, in Marion, the daughter of Frank and Pearl (Rooks) Sandlin. Betty attended school in Marion and was a graduate of Marion High School Class of 1944. She was united in marriage to Paul E. Burns on Sunday, October 7, 1945, in Marion and together they shared over 59 years of marriage until his death on Wednesday, November 17, 2004. The majority of Betty’s working career was with the Williamson County General Assistance Program of the Circuit Clerks Office for many years until her retirement. She was a longtime active member of the First Christian Church-Disciples of Christ of Marion. In her spare time she enjoyed getting together weekly with her pinochle club, was an avid scrabble player, working crossword puzzles and enjoyed reading. She loved her family and enjoyed the many times they all would gather together. The many memories that were created will now be cherished by those she leaves behind. She is survived by two sons, James P. Burns and Lanny Burns both of Marion; sister and brother-in-law, Jeannine and Bill Stapleton of Marion, several nieces and nephews, other extended family and many friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband; brother, Jerry Sandlin and five sisters, Mai Bock, Verai Markham, Mildred Pulley, Gladys Craver and Ruby Arterbury. Arrangements for Betty L. Burns were entrusted to Wilson-McReynolds Funeral Home, 900 N. Court St., Marion, IL. The visitation was from 12:00 noon until 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 2, 2016, at the funeral home. Following the time of visitation the funeral service was at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. William Rucker presiding. The prelude and postlude musical selections were by pianist, Lori Creamer. Special vocal musical selections presented during the service were “In the Garden”, “How Great Thou Art” and “I’ll Fly Away” all by Lori Creamer who accompanied herself on the piano. Interment followed next to her husband in Odd Fellows Cemetery of Marion. Pallbearers were Greg Miller, Jim Arterbury, Earl Ray Dungey, James Rotramel and Bob Wilson. Following the committal service at the cemetery the family and friends gathered at First Christian Church for a meal and continued time of fellowship and support. For those who preferred, memorial contributions were made to “First Christian Church” and mailed in care of Wilson-McReynolds Funeral Home, P.O. Box 370, Marion, IL 62959. Memorial envelopes were available at the funeral home. For additional information please contact the funeral home by calling 618-993-2131.