Joseph Roderick Burns

A Mass of Christian Burial for Mr. Joseph Roderick Burns will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Friday, June 13, 2025, at St. Peter Catholic Church in Bassfield, with interment following in Mt. Horeb Cemetery in Covington County. Father Tomasz Golab will officiate. Mr. Burns, age 86, entered into the eternal rest of his Lord at his home in Covington County. Saulters Moore Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.

The Burns family will receive friends Friday morning from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter Parish Hall, with the Rosary prayer service beginning at 9:00 a.m.

Mr. Burns will be carried to his final rest by those serving as pallbearers, including Shea Lott, Russell Nance, Donald Sistrunk, Chandler Kervin, Kyle Nelson, and Sean Burns.  Serving as honorary pallbearers are John Burns, Bear Wood, Scotty Burns, Eddie Lee, Steve Gordon, Dan Gordon, Justin Burns, and Ray Powell.

Joseph Roderick Burns was born on October 1, 1938, in Jefferson Davis County to Leo and Ambrosia O’Connell Burns. He leaves behind a legacy defined by dedication, craftsmanship, and faith, reflecting his steadfast character throughout his remarkable life. Roderick began his career as a carpenter under the guidance of his father, a role that would shape his professional journey. He later joined St. Regis Paper Company, where he contributed his expertise for many years before retiring from Georgia Pacific Paper Company with over 40 years of commendable service. His unwavering dedication is exemplified by his extraordinary record of never missing a day at work. He especially enjoyed all types of bird hunting and raising Brittany Spaniels as bird dogs over the years.

He will be remembered as a skilled woodworker, who was known for crafting swings, gliders, and chairs. He generously donated many of his creations to civic organizations and church groups, supporting fundraisers with his artwork and reinforcing his commitment to community service.

Mr. Burns was also a devoted member of St. Peter Catholic Church. His unwavering faith was a cornerstone of his life; he loved Jesus with all his heart and made attending Mass every day a priority. Those who knew him often described him as having the patience of Job, a testament to the compassion and understanding he showed to everyone in his life.

In addition to his parents, Mr. Burns is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Troy Merle Burns; son, Kenneth Larry Wood; and his brothers, Neil Burns, Vincent Burns, James Burns, and Kevin Burns.

His memory will forever be cherished by his daughter, Brenda Faye Hughes (John) of Collins; sisters; Margaret Lee of Ponchatoula, LA, and Patricia Gordon of Brandon. The legacy of their Rock Rock will forever live in the hearts of his grandchildren, Leigh (Tim) Rayner, Nita (Donald) Sistrunk, Dee Dee (Shea) Lott, Amy (Russell) Nance, and Bear (Alisha) Wood; 10 great-grandchildren; a great-great grandchild.  In addition, he leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews who loved him so much.

Online condolences and a guest registry are available at www.saultersmoorefuneralhome.com