David Haskle Burns of Maud, Alabama, passed away in his home on June 28, 2024. David was born August 31, 1945 to Vera Pauline Phillips Burns and Louis McKinley Burns of Maud. A Vietnam War veteran, David served his country with honor and courage saving lives as a medic and received numerous awards, including the Bronze Star Medal for Valor, the Army Commendation Medal, and the Combat Medical Badge. After his military service, he pursued a distinguished academic career, earning multiple degrees. His interest in science and technology led him to a fulfilling career at NASA, where he made significant contributions until he retired. David always liked working with computers, but he suffered severe vision loss from macular degeneration over the last decade that limited him from enjoying some of his most-loved pastimes. David enjoyed music as well and continued to find joy listening to classical, bluegrass, and old-time gospel music.
He was preceded in death by his parents (Vera and Louis), his sister (Sarah Almajean), and his two brothers (Louis Ray and Earl Reece). David loved his siblings deeply. He suffered hardships with the premature losses of some of his closest loved ones, and he often faced challenges relating to others. However, his unique sense of humor, exceptional intelligence, and differing perspective enriched the lives of those who knew him. Family gatherings brought David happiness and he loved visiting with his cousins, nieces, nephews, and their children. He is survived by his two nephews (Ray Burns and Mark Maxwell), seven nieces (Joanne Williams, Fonda Jameson, Cheryl Burkhart, Renee Harlan, Tracy Hatley, Lara Burns, and Cary Lopez), and his sister-in-law (Lana) who will cherish their memories of him. The family extend their gratitude to Lisa Puckett for her friendship and support of David, especially as his health declined.
David will be remembered for his intelligence and love of learning and his love of his family and home in Maud. His presence will be greatly missed.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, July 3, at 10am with visitation at 9am at Morrison Funeral Home in Cherokee. Nephews and cousins will serve as pallbearers.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Macular Degeneration Association (https://macularhope.org/) to support research on age-related macular degeneration.
