Celebrating the life of
George Edward Burns
October 24, 1936 - September 26, 2007
George E. Burns
George Edward Burns was called to eternal life on Wednesday, September 26 at Hospice Savannah following a brave and long battle with cancer. He spent his last days surrounded by family and friends who joined together to celebrate his life. Ed was 70.
Ed was a life-long resident of Savannah and spent his youth working with his family at Wilmington Island’s first grocery and gas station, Burns Market. Following his father’s death, Ed joined with his mother Lula in operating DeRenne Builders where Ed served as a contractor and spearheaded the building of more than 200 houses a year as well as serving as the developer for numerous shopping centers that continue to be a part of the Savannah community. He later served as the district manager for Public Savings Insurance while continuing his building projects throughout Chatham County. In his retirement, he worked passionately to assist in the growth and development of his son’s business on Chatham Parkway.
Ed graduated from Savannah High School in 1954 where he was a star athlete and led the basketball team in consecutive winning seasons. Ed then continued his basketball career at Armstrong Junior College being named the first recipient of the prestigious Ashley Dearing Award that continues to this day. Ed then attended the University of Georgia where he again was a member of the basketball team. Later after his return to Savannah, he joined in forming the Savannah Indians in 1966, Savannah’s first semi-pro football team. Ed was inducted into the Armstrong Sports Hall of Fame in 2002. He shared his proud day with family and friends.
Whether golfing, fishing, hunting or building houses, Ed loved the outdoors and sports. He was active in adult sports leagues throughout his life while also making time to plant a large garden sharing his crops with friends and neighbors. His love of nature and sports was only surpassed by his love of life and friends. Ed always had a parade of friends surrounding him and took joy in being with those he loved.
He is survived by his son Edward Shannon Burns, an older brother James Burns of Dallas, GA, a sister Delores Burns Dobberton of Savannah, Mary Merritt, the beloved mother of his son Shannon, two nieces and two nephews.
Ed will be remembered by all those who love his as an energetic and charismatic man of joy who celebrated life, friends and family.
Visitation: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Thursday, September 27 at Fox and Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel.
Funeral Services 10:00 a.m. Friday, September 28, 2007 at Fox and Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel with the Rev. Patrick O’Brien and Rev. Thomas J. Murphy officiating followed by graveside services at Hillcrest Abbey.
To Sissy, Jimmy and all the family of Ed, we offer our deepest sympathy. Ed will be missed by all who knew him and knew how much he loved life. He accomplished much and leaves an empty spot in all our lives.
- Truman & Dorothy Rhodes, Savannah, GA
We are so sorry for your loss. We met Edward a couple of times and knew right away he was a strong man with a zest for life. He fought the good fight, now he is free of pain and at peace with his Holy Father. Our prayers are with you.
- Suzanne & Gerard, Savannah, GA
Please accept our deepest sympathy for your loss. We knew Ed for several years, but only recently became good friends. He was a 'good guy' who was close to his family and friends. Our fondest memory of him was that he had a great sense of humor and loved a good joke. He will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.
- Steve & Rita Seymour, Augusta, GA
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of the family. We loved Ed very much and will miss him greatly. God bless! Max Kemper and family
- Max Kemper, Guyton, GA
To Sissy, Jimmy and all the family of Ed, we offer our deepest sympathy. Ed will be missed by all who knew him and knew how much he loved life. He accomplished much and leaves an empty spot in all our lives.
- Truman & Dorothy Rhodes, Savannah, GA
We are so sorry for your loss. We met Edward a couple of times and knew right away he was a strong man with a zest for life. He fought the good fight, now he is free of pain and at peace with his Holy Father. Our prayers are with you.
- Suzanne & Gerard, Savannah, GA
Please accept our deepest sympathy for your loss. We knew Ed for several years, but only recently became good friends. He was a 'good guy' who was close to his family and friends. Our fondest memory of him was that he had a great sense of humor and loved a good joke. He will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.
- Steve & Rita Seymour, Augusta, GA
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of the family. We loved Ed very much and will miss him greatly. God bless! Max Kemper and family
- Max Kemper, Guyton, GA
So glad to know you were my dad. Very sorry I didnt get to meet you. You were an amazing man. I have so many of your traits. RIP Dad!
- Candice Summey, Jacksonville, Fl
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
