James Roger "Jim" Burns

Mr. James Roger Burns, age 67, of Brandenburg, KY, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2026, at University of Louisville Hospital surrounded by his loving family.

Jim was born on June 21, 1958, in Chester, PA to Oscar and Eileen Mockbee Burns, both of whom preceded him in death.

As a young man, Jim joined the United States Army and proudly served in the 82nd Airborne.  After leaving the Army he worked in construction until an accident resulting in a spinal cord injury left him as a quadriplegic.  Although he was confined to a wheelchair for over 40 years, that did not define him or slow him down.  Jim became an activist for disability rights and was very active in his community assisting the disabled.  He was a volunteer for the American Red Cross; a former Chaplain for the Meade County Fire Department; a Kentucky Colonel; HAM radio operator; and a recipient of the WLKY Bell Award recognizing his achievements for the disabled.  If anyone was in need of a wheelchair, ramp, walker, etc., Jim would make sure that it happened.

Jim loved serving other and was a member of Weldon Christian Church.  His family was his pride and joy, and he loved spending time with his many grandchildren who all adored him.

Jim was also preceded in death by his mother and father-in-law, Lawrence and Velma Benham; two sisters, Linda and Suzie Burns; and three brothers, Eddie, bobby, and Rick Burns.  He is survived by his devoted wife and caregiver, Carla, who he loved so much; three children, Jennifer (Michael) Burns, Jay (Kayla) Burns, and Julie (Sean) Meiers; his niece, Ginger (Chris) Miller; 15 grandchildren, Susan, Jenna, Emma, Jayson, Allie, Landon, Lincoln, Gunnar, Stella, Roman, Ace, Aden, Ana, Kenny and Ella; his sister, Judy (David) Barnett; his sister-in-law, Allison (Terry) Cundiff; several nieces and nephews; his beloved dog, Fluffy; his home health aides, Tiffany and Lauren; and his many, many friends.

Jim was an avid Philadelphia Eagles fan and loved watching their games with his family.  His fun-loving personality will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 PM on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at the chapel of the Hager Funeral Home with Rev. Gary True officiating.  Burial, with military honors, will follow in Weldon Christian Church Cemetery.  Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 2:00 PM until 8:00 PM on Tuesday, and from 12:00 Noon until the time of service on Wednesday.  Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to the family to aid with expenses, or to the Disabled American Veterans.