Norma Jean Burns, 93, of Benton Harbor, went to meet her Lord & Savior Jesus Christ, Sunday, March 22, 2026 at her home, surrounded by her Family.
A Celebration of Life Eternal will be held 11:00 A.M. Saturday, April 11, 2026 at Crystal Springs Church of God, 1465 Pipestone Rd., Benton Harbor, with Rev. Bill Bridgman officiating. Burial will follow at Crystal Springs Cemetery. Friends may visit with the Family beginning at 10:00 A.M., one hour prior to the service. Memorial donations in Norma’s name may be made to Crystal Springs Church of God. Those wishing to sign Norma’s Memory Book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
Norma was born September 13, 1932 in Benton Harbor to Albert & Huldena Oswald. She graduated from Benton Harbor High School, Class of 1950. On November 2, 1957, she married Sylvester “Syl” Burns in Benton Harbor. Norma devoted her life wholeheartedly to her family. She was a loving wife, a caring mother, and the steady heart of her home, faithfully caring for Syl and their daughters, Lonna and Lori. She gave of herself so freely and so often, always putting the needs of those she loved before her own. Through her quiet strength, gentle spirit, and constant devotion, she created a home filled with love, comfort, and care. The way she loved her family was seen not only in the big moments, but in the everyday acts of kindness and sacrifice that defined her life.
Her faith was the foundation of who she was. Norma was a longtime and devoted member of Crystal Springs Church of God, where she served with a willing heart and a spirit of joy. She lovingly took part in caring for her church family through preparing funeral dinners and decorating the church for special seasons and occasions. She arranged the Easter lilies and Christmas poinsettias with great care, helping make the church feel especially beautiful and welcoming. Norma also faithfully served as treasurer for the Women of the Church of God for more than forty years, a reflection of both her commitment and the trust others placed in her. Her service to the church was not simply a duty, but an expression of her deep faith and love for others.
In her free time, Norma found joy in the simple and meaningful things in life. She loved reading her Bible, tending to her flower gardens, sewing, and cooking for her family, always finding ways to care for those around her. She treasured the friendships she shared at the North Berrien Senior Center and enjoyed going for a car ride whenever the opportunity arose. Whether at home, at church, or among friends, Norma carried herself with warmth, grace, and a caring heart that made others feel loved and welcomed.
Norma is survived by her daughters-Lonna (Mark) VanderLinden of Watervliet, Lori Burns of Benton Harbor; grandchildren-Sylvia (John) Howley, Justin Richter, Haley (Hank) Kujawa, Skylor VanderLinden, Dena (Anthony) Neubauer, Aubrey Richter; great-grandchildren-Norma Jean, Ella Joy, Marlee, Barbara, Axel, Jackson, Nixon, Rosella, Sylvester & Noaelle; several nieces & nephews; and the cousins. Norma was preceded in death by her husband Syl on July 27, 2012, her parents, and siblings-Robert Oswald & Joyce Spletzer.
Memorial Contributions
Crystal Springs Church of God
Service Details
Visitation
When
April 11th, 2026 10:00am – 11:00am
Where
Crystal Springs Church of God
Address
1465 Pipestone Rd.
BENTON HARBOR, MI 49022
Service
When
April 11th, 2026 11:00am
Where
Crystal Springs Church of God
Address
1465 Pipestone Rd.
BENTON HARBOR , MI 49022
Interment
Where
Crystal Springs Cemetery
Address
1655 E. Napier Ave.
Benton Harbor , MI 49022
Posted On: Friday, March 27, 2026 3:26 PM
