Rev. Wilburn Burns

A memorial service for Pastor Wilburn Ray Burns, 91 of Temple, will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 11am at Trinity Church in Temple with Reverend Ed Dowell officiating. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 10:15am prior to the service. Private graveside services will be held at North Belton Cemetery.

Pastor Burns took his last breath on earth and his first breath in heaven on July 2, 2026, at his home.

In his younger years, he enjoyed playing golf and developed a reputation for his exceptional accounting abilities, earning the respect and admiration of those who worked alongside him. He had a generous heart and loved bringing people together, often hosting fellowships where he personally prepared much of the meal. His delicious homemade pies became a favorite and will be fondly remembered by many.

Pastor Burns was a cherished Bible teacher whose passion for sharing God's Word reached far beyond his local church. He faithfully participated in mission trips to Russia, Sweden, Mexico, South Africa, and Israel, encouraging believers and proclaiming the hope of Christ wherever God called him.

Above all, Pastor Burns was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather and great-grandfather. He treasured every opportunity to spend time with his family, especially during vacations to Galveston and Colorado that they enjoyed together. Those moments created treasured memories that will remain in the hearts of his loved ones for generations.

As a pastor, he faithfully shepherded his congregation with compassion, wisdom, and unwavering love. He cared deeply for his church family, offering biblical guidance, encouragement, and a Christlike example through both his words and his life. His legacy of faith, kindness, servant-hearted leadership, and steadfast love for the Lord will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.

Though he will be deeply missed, his family and friends rejoice in the assurance that he is now in the presence of his Savior, hearing the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

Pastor Burns was born June 10, 1935, in Ft. Worth, the son of Ollie Benjamin and Mary Ommie (Patrick) Burns. He graduated from high school and attended Brantley-Draughon Business College in Fort Worth, Texas and he served in the United States Army from 1953-1956. He worked for Cain & Cain, Inc. in Fort Worth, Texas for over 18 years as a General Contractor. He married Doris Virginia Dickinson, December 10, 1960, in Fort Worth, Texas. In 1976, he founded Trinity Church of Temple, where he served as Senior Pastor for more than 30 years.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Doris Virginia of 63 years in 2024 and their daughter Mary Katherine Burns in 1981, two brothers, Melvin Eugene Burns and Lee Roy Burns.

Survivors include two daughters, Jana Rogers and husband John, and Susan Dowell and husband Ed; four grandchildren, Jennifer Whitley, Justin Rogers, Jessica Jackson and husband, Casey, Mark Dowell and wife, Sydnie and five great-grandchildren, Asher Whitley, Summer Jackson, Evelyn Dowell, Alice Dowell, Nora Jackson and another great-grandchild on the way; one brother David Burns and wife Janis; and numerous nieces and nephews

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you give to Trinity Church of Temple, 3501 Airport Road, Temple, TX 76504, Pastor Burns memorial fund.