Jim Burns

William James Burns III (Jim), age 55, of Whittier, NC passed away Tuesday, April 2, 2013. Jim, known by his friends as Bernie, was born November 8, 1957 in Jacksonville, Fla. He is the son of the late William James Burns II and the late Annette Whigham Burns and was preceded in death by his sister Ginger Burns. Jim was retired, but enjoyed seasonal work in Cherokee. Jim enjoyed bowling with his family and spending time outdoors four-wheeling and watching his first grandbaby grow up. He loved his wife no matter how many dogs she brought home. Jim was a member of Grace Community Church in Sylva. He is survived by his loving wife of 28 years Teresa Dingler Burns, three daughters Ruby Burns Peoples and son-in-law Will Peoples of Sylva, Brittney Burns of Sylva and W. Jem Burns III of Knoxville, Tenn. and one son Michael Taylor Burns and daughter-in-law Heather Burns of Wilmington, NC; One granddaughter Madison Marie Riley and one grandson due in May, Turner William Raby. Two sisters Sherry Burns Wilson and husband Walter Wilson of Dillsboro, Jamie Hughie of Texas and three nephews Travis Stephens of Denver, CO, Thomas Stephens of Sylva, Jay Cox and two niece Gretchen Breese and husband Tomi of Johnson City, Tenn. and Gayla Cox. The family will receive friends from 1 to 2 p.m. on Friday, April 5 at Appalachian Funeral Services in Sylva, NC with a Memorial service immediately following. Pastor Scott Woodard will officiate. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the "Jim Burns Ben Fund" at United Community Bank.