In Memoriam : Gilbert Burns

Gilbert W. Burns - age: 95
(March 30, 1929 to July 29, 2024 )
Resident of Farmersville, California

Visitation Information:
Viewing will take place on Monday, August 5, 2024 from 2-6 p.m. at Evans Miller Guinn Chapel. Graveside Service will take place on Tuesday, August 6, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at Exeter District Cemetery.

Obituary:
Gilbert Weldon Burns
"Dogwood"

Gilbert Weldon Burns of Farmersville passed away on July 29, 2024, after 95 remarkable years. Born in Cooper, Texas, on March 30, 1929, to Newton and Claudia Clements-Burns, Gilbert grew up with two sisters and three brothers who were all very dear to him. Those who shared a meal with the Burns brothers knew it was always a lively experience.
On July 12, 1951, Gilbert married Lorene Wallace after eloping across several states to find the perfect spot. They settled in San Rafael, California, where they had two children, Larry Weldon Burns and Linda Lorene Burns. Gilbert worked for LP McNear Brick Company until a serious injury forced him to leave that job, prompting the family to relocate closer to relatives.
Gilbert was known for his strong work ethic, which he developed as a child picking cotton and fruit with his siblings. He later worked for Jerry Pruitt Auto Sales, earning the nickname "repo man" and amassing numerous stories from his adventures.
A Ford enthusiast, Gilbert could recall the year and price of every car he owned. He enjoyed speed and burnouts, a passion he passed on to his children and grandchildren. His favorite hobby was CB radios, where he was known as "Dogwood." He spent countless hours fine-tuning radios and connecting with people across the country, forging many lifelong friendships.
Gilbert and Lorene cherished their years together, frequently traveling to Arkansas to visit family, camping, riding motorcycles with friends, and dancing. Gilbert was known for his dancing skill which he enjoyed with his children, Larry and Linda. They also enjoyed many motorcycle adventures, making lifelong friends along the way. Their 43 years of marriage ended with Lorene's passing in 1994 after a courageous battle with cancer.
In 1999, Gilbert married Linda Wilson. They traveled extensively and became active members of Farmersville Freewill Baptist Church, where Gilbert found strength in his church community after Linda's passing in July 2016.
Gilbert will be deeply missed. He is survived by his son, Larry W. Burns of Visalia; grandchildren Don Burns of Visalia, Michelle Jones (Scott) of Exeter, and Sara Burns (Chris) of Visalia; seven great-grandchildren (Samantha, Dakota, Ashley, Levi, Logan, Lance, and Charli); and three great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by multiple nieces, nephews, and his beloved dog, Toby. Gilbert had several honorary grandchildren who were very special to him.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Linda Burns; granddaughter Alisha Burns; and great-grandson Luke Burns.

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