John Joseph Burns

John Joseph Burns Jr., 82, passed away on August 17, 2026, in Jefferson City, Tennessee. Born on March 7, 1944, in Bayonne, New Jersey, John lived a life filled with love, dedication, and craftsmanship. A proud graduate of Abraham Clark High School in 1962, John went on to serve his country with honor. He dedicated three years to the Army and an additional three years to the Army Reserve. His time in service instilled in him a strong sense of discipline and commitment that he carried throughout his life. John served as a department manager of Pathmark Supermarket at various locations in New Jersey for 50 Years, before retiring in 2014. John had a remarkable talent for working with his hands. Whether it was woodworking or gardening, he poured his heart into every project and took immense pride in all that he created. He found joy in sharing his skills with others, leaving behind not only beautiful creations but also cherished memories for those who learned from him. His passions extended to watching Nascar, fishing, working on cars and sharing the simple pleasures of life with his beloved wife, Michelle and family & friends. Family was at the center of John’s world. He is survived by his devoted wife, Michelle Keene; sister, Carol Armstrong (Charlie); brother, Michael (Denise); children, Michelle Taylor (Ricky), Johnny Braddock (Tisha), Missy Holmes, Denise Finley (Jeffrey), Janet Chutly, Kevin Burns (Kim), Alexa Abromaitis (Joe), Daron Rivers (Jessica). John was also blessed with 12 grandchildren; 5 and a half great-grandchildren; and 18 nieces and nephews, who brought him endless joy. He shared a special bond with his furbabies, Sandy, Panda, Godiva, and Bella. John was predeceased by his parents, John Joseph Sr. and Emily Burns; as well as his stepmother, Florence Burns. When moving to TN, John and Michelle found Pathways Church in Sevierville. John enjoyed attending service with his wife and enjoyed the messages taught by Pastor Bent and Dr. Keith. John’s legacy is one of love, creativity, and generosity. His memory will live on through the lives he touched and the family he cherished so deeply. May those who knew him find comfort in remembering the joy he brought into their lives. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Pathways Church at either PathwaysChurch.com/give or Pathways Church, 1126 Wagner Dr. Sevierville, TN 37862. Military Honor Ceremony will be held at 1:00 pm Friday, August 21, 2026, at Fielden Funeral Home, 910 Churchview St. New Market, TN 37820, with honors provide by V.F.W. Post 5266. Visitation with family to greet friends to honor John’s life will be held on Friday, August 21, from 5:00 - 6:00 PM with a Celebration of Life immediately following at Pathways Church, 1126 Wagner Drive, Sevierville, TN 37862. Fielden Funeral Home in New Market, TN is honored to serve the Family of John Burns.

John Joseph Burns

March 7, 1944 - August 17, 2026