Terry Lee Burns

Terry Lee Burns, 74, of Cambria, Illinois, passed away on October 21, 2024, under the compassionate care of Hospice of Southern Illinois and SIH Herrin Hospital. He was born on October 4, 1950, in Noblesville, Indiana, to Charles and Phyllis Burns.

Most of his childhood was spent in Indiana, where he grew up with his six siblings. At the age of 17, he joined the Navy, serving as an aircraft mechanic for two years, followed by a decade as a Navy reservist. After his military service, he dedicated 30 years to working as a steelworker at Bethlehem Steel in Chesterton, Indiana, which allowed him to retire early. He and his family then relocated to Southern Illinois to be closer to loved ones.

In retirement, Terry cherished traveling with his family, fishing, and playing his guitar. He had a passion for music, often found playing his favorite songs or listening to them, always filling the background with melodies that will forever echo in our hearts. He also enjoyed watching westerns and NCIS on TV, finding great pleasure in the stories they told. Known as the family handyman, he had a remarkable talent for fixing or building just about anything.

He is survived by his former wife of 53 years and mother of his children, Martha Burns; son, Terry (Patricia) Burns; daughters, Martha (Andy) Povinelli and Tia (John) Leabu; granddaughters, Rylee and Fayth Roche, Lili Burns, Anna Povinelli, and Tegan Leabu; mother-in-law, Martha Halterman; sisters, Linda Hock, Donna Brown, Peggy Boze, and Judy Lynch; and many other loving family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Phyllis Burns; father-in-law, Earl Halterman Sr.; brother, Jeff Burns; and sister, Becky Boze.

Terry’s wish was to be cremated, and a celebration of life will be held at The Life O'Riley event venue located in Murphysboro, Illinois, on Saturday, November 30, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Please join us in remembrance.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Air EVAC Lifeteam or Hospice of Southern Illinois in his memory.

Riggin-Pillatsch & Burke Funeral Home in Carterville assisted the family with cremation services. 

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