Jerry Burns Obituary

Jerry Frank Burns, 89, departed this life March 4, 2024, at the retirement community Brio of Johnston in Johnston, IA. Jerry was born August 11, 1934, in Wayne County to John and Maxine Rogers Burns. Jerry and Phyllis Petty were married February 28, 1954, at the Lineville Assembly of God Church. They were married 66 years until Phyllis' death in 2020.
Jerry grew up with his parents, an older brother, Robert and two younger sisters, Betty and Karen near Clio, IA. Jerry began his education at the famous Little Red School House on Highway US 65. In 1952, he graduated from Lineville High School. After graduating high school, Jerry farmed with his father and brother until continuing his education at Missouri State University in Springfield, Missouri.
After receiving his B.S. in Education, Jerry continued his schooling and received his master's degree in Elementary School Administration from the University of Missouri, his Special Education Administration degree from the University of South Dakota, graduate degree in School Psychology from the University of Nebraska, as well as post-graduate studies at the University of Colorado. His desire for knowledge never ended.
Jerry's career spanned 32 years, retiring in 1991. He began as an elementary teacher and assistant principal in Des Moines. He later worked in Warren, Madison and Marion counties as a school psychologist and concluded his career as Coordinator and Assistant Director of Special Education at Heartland Area Education Agency.
Besides helping children learn and develop, Jerry was also known for his willingness to volunteer. His self-taught expertise in technology, computers and programs was vital to co-workers needing assistance with this new and ever-changing field. Jerry was always willing and able to lend a hand thanks to his innate drive for knowledge.
Jerry was a devout Christian his whole life. He became a member of the Assembly of God church as a young adult. He was a member of New Hope Assembly of God Church in Urbandale. He enjoyed giving back with his willingness to serve and volunteer in many facets through this stewardship.
Jerry's favorite pastime activities and hobbies included technology, photography, cooking, ceramics, and gardening. During the summers, he enjoyed following his great nephew Nick's golf tournaments and taking daily walks around his neighborhood. Most importantly, he enjoyed genealogy, which led to tracing his ancestors back to being first voyagers on the Mayflower, thereby honoring him as a member of the esteemed and exclusive General Society of the Mayflower Descendants.
He is survived by his sisters Betty Empey and Karen (Jim) Pittman. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Ames (Thelma) Petty. He is survived by cousins Alice Lenington, Dale Burns, Donna Hopwood, Gary Burns, Cecil Barclay and Wanda White. Also surviving are nephew John (Amy) Pittman, Tom (Karen) Petty, and nieces Susan (Stephen) Moore, Anita (David) Kelso, and Amanda (Jarrod) Martin as well as many great and great-great nieces and nephews.
Jerry was preceded in death by his wife Phyllis, parents John and Maxine, and his brother Robert.
Jerry will be remembered by all who knew him for his quiet, gentle and kind personality. May he rest in peace.
Visitation will be Saturday, March 9th at 10:00 am at Iles Funeral Home - Westover Chapel. Funeral services will be held immediately thereafter at 11:00 am with Rev. James Weaver officiating. Burial will take place afterwards at Clio Cemetery in Clio, Iowa.
Memorials may be directed to: New Hope Assembly of God Church, 4425 70th St., Urbandale, Iowa 50322.
ILES-WESTOVER CHAPEL
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