Moore J. Burns, 96, of Auburn, Alabama, passed away May 21 at his home at Azalea Place in Auburn. He was born May 31, 1917, in Wedowee, Alabama. He is preceded in death by his parents, Harmon Theron and Molly LeBertha Moore Burns, four brothers, three sisters and a son, James David Burns.
He is survived by his loving wife of 74 years, Teresa L. Burns; daughter-in-law, Jan H. Burns, Nashville; daughter, Kathy Burns Dickinson (Jack) Jackson Gap, AL.; and son Richard M. Burns (Allison) Birmingham; seven grandchildren: Alan G. Burns , Marietta, Ga.; Susan B. Dean (Gary) , Nashville; Jonathan H. Burns (Elizabeth) Valdosta, Ga.; Laura H. Dickinson (Todd) Birmingham; Christy H. Nord, Birmingham; Jeffrey M. Burns (Elaine), Helena, AL., and Ann London Burns, Birmingham. He is also survived by eleven great- grandchildren.
Dr. Burns had a great love of God, Country, Family and Auburn. He earned both a BS (Agricultural Science) and MS (Animal Nutrition) from Auburn University, and a PhD (Biochemistry) from Purdue University. He enjoyed a 34-year distinguished career in teaching and research at Auburn University, primarily in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology in the School of Veterinary Medicine. He retired as Professor Emeritus in 1982. He truly loved Auburn and lived by the Auburn Creed.
Dr. Burns proudly served as an officer in the U.S. Army (Field Artillery) during WWII. He was in charge of the fire-direction center for an eight-inch howitzer battalion while in Germany. Later transferring to the Medical Service Corps as Nutrition officer, and continuing in active army reserve service after the war, retiring as a full Colonel in 1977.
He was an active member of Auburn United Methodist Church since 1950. His church activities and participation included his role as Sunday School teacher, Lay Speaker, membership on the Administrative Board, and as Chairman of both the Every Member Visitation and the Board of Trustees.
He was a dedicated community service volunteer including his many contributions as an enthusiastic member of the Auburn Lions Club since 1951, serving in many leadership roles including club President and Chairman/Coordinator of Auburn University Athletic Events for many years and with many outstanding service awards.
The family would like to express a special appreciation to the caring professionals at Freedom Home Care and Hospice Advantage (EAMC) for their kindness and gentle care. In addition, the family extends a warm thank you to the many treasured friends and neighbors who have meant so much over so many years.
Visitation will be held Saturday, May 24, 2014 from 1:30-3:15 pm in the Founders Chapel at Auburn United Methodist Church, Auburn, Alabama.
Funeral service will be 3:30 pm, Saturday, May 24, 2014, in the Founders Chapel at Auburn United Methodist Church; with Dr. George Mathison officiating. Interment will follow at Auburn Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Auburn United Methodist Church Food Bank (PO Box 3135, Auburn, Al 36831), Hospice Advantage EAMC (665 Opelika Rd., Suite 200, Auburn, AL 36830) or a charity of your choice.