James S Burns, Jr. of Whiting Maine, went to be with the Lord on August 26, 2026.  Jim was born July 19, 1936. He is the son of Ellie and James Burns, Sr.  Jim was a 1954 graduate of Gardiner High School where he played football and ran track. He was class president his senior year and received the Dr. William O Cobb award for outstanding football player in 1953. 

In September of 1954 he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. He served four years active duty.  In 1958 he enrolled at the University of Maine at Orono. While at UMO, in 1960, he married Gloria Dunn. They were married for 64 years. Jim graduated from UMO in 1962 with a B.S. in education. In 1964 he received his Masters Degree in school administration. James retired from working in education after 32 years. First as a teacher and then a school principal. For the next ten years he was employed as Director of Child Development Services in Hancock County. Jim enjoyed the outdoors. He had many adventures hunting and fishing over the years with close friends. Jim maintained a good sense of humor right up to the end.

James is predeceased by his wife Gloria. He leaves behind his daughter Heather Leo, his son in-law Chris Leo and two grandsons, Tory and Thomas Leo. He is survived by his youngest brother David Burns. 

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his name to the Maine Veterans’ Home- Machias, 32 Veterans Way, Machias, ME 04654.  Service time to be announced at a later date.