Charles G. Burns

CHARLES G. BURNS, affectionately known as "Big Charles," departed this life February 10, 2017.  Charles was born on April 11, 1938 in Buffalo, New York to the late Joseph M. and Lucretia F. Burns.

 Charles was educated in the Buffalo Public School System and received an Associate’s Degree in Business from Erie Community College.  

At the age of 17,  Charles joined the National Guard.  In 1961, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving until his honorable discharge in 1963.

Charles was employed with Erie County for several years.  He was gainfully employed at B&O Railroad, retiring as a conductor.

Charles accepted Christ at an early age and later found a home at Bethel A.M.E. Church.

Charles enjoyed playing cards and listening to music (Jazz).  He absolutely loved spending time with his family and was truly loved by all.

Charles is preceded in death by his wife, Leona; daughter, Tonya; two brothers, William “Sonny” (Joyce) and Jospeh “Pookey;” his loving aunt, Jessie Mae Dale and his best friend, Elwood Brown.

 He leaves to cherish his memory six children, Dennis, Deborah, Angela, Kevin (Karen), Charmaine and Katrina (Joseph); five siblings, Marion, Isaac, Michael (cousin), Rochelle and Melvina “Gale” (Steve); his #1 grandson, Charles Morrow, and grandchildren, Monique, Deidre, Jermaine, Angela, Kevin Jr., Shana, Jennifer, Alexis, Kwadjo, Naki, and a host of great grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other family and friends.

A special acknowledgements to Debbie Barton, who was much more than a niece; and to Ernest Lawrence, Herman Brown and Wayne Anthony for a lifetime of devotion and love.

Family will receive friends, Thursday, February 16, 2017, 11am at Bethel A.M.E. Church, 1525 Michigan Ave.  Funeral to follow at 12 noon.

 Service Information