Raymond "Tom" Burns

Raymond Thomas “Tom” Burns, 72, of Pueblo, Colorado, passed away on April 8, 2026, surrounded by his loving wife and daughters. Tom was born on June 4, 1953, in Hickory, North Carolina, to Mart Harden Burns and Sarah Frances Mowery Burns. He was raised in Icard, North Carolina, alongside his brothers. He was preceded in death by his brothers Dennis Burns, who passed in infancy, and Jerry Burns, who passed away at the age of 13. He is survived by his older brother, Larry (Paulette) Burns, their son Scott (Cynthia) Burns, and their grandchildren, Ryleigh, Mason, and Carsyn Burns. At the age of 18, Tom enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he proudly served for over eight years. His service took him across the country and overseas, including assignments in Virginia, Mississippi, New York, Colorado, and Germany. While serving, he worked as a computer systems repair technician and was a member of the 601st Tactical Control Squadron in Prüm Air Station, Germany. His dedication and skill earned him the Meritorious Service Medal as a Staff Sergeant. In addition to his military service, Tom also valued pursuing higher education, earning degrees in Computer Information Systems and Business Administration. On March 24, 1984, Tom married the love of his life, Pam Burns, and together they built a life centered on family. He was a devoted father to his three daughters: Krysta (Aaron) Eggert, Bryana (Danny) Smith, and Tasha (Benjamin) Curci. Tom was a proud and actively involved grandfather to six grandchildren: Ollie Jean and Owen Riley Eggert; Harper Jordyn and Knox Roman Smith; and Graham Kincade and Elliot Thomas Curci. He found great joy in spending time with them, playing, laughing, and creating lasting memories. Tom will be remembered as a man who was larger than life; tough, outspoken, and undeniably stubborn, yet fiercely loyal and deeply caring. He had a sharp sense of humor and a love of joking, often bringing laughter even in the most serious moments. He never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone. He had a deep appreciation for hard work, shaped by his humble beginnings, and passed that work ethic on to his children and grandchildren. He loved the outdoors, especially working with trees—planting them, caring for them, and cutting and splitting firewood to help others in need. He was always ready to lend a hand, often turning small projects into much bigger endeavors, much to the amusement of his family. Above all, Tom was strong, fearless, and resilient. He faced life on his own terms and remained that way until the very end. He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Raymond "Tom" Burns

June 4, 1953 - April 8, 2026