William David Burns (Billy) passed away peacefully on March 29th in Midland, Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Ona Winn Burns. He is survived by his siblings and their spouses, Simon Pierce Burns and Reba, Dr. Paul Burns and Toni, Mary Margaret Byrom and Charles Schwope. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews and their families. They include Mr. and Mrs. Pierce Burns, Jr., Mr. and Mrs. Jaime Spellings, Mr. and Mrs. Russell Arnold, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Byrom, Jr., Mr. and Mrs. Todd Burns and Mr. and Mrs. Albert G. Metcalfe, III.

He enjoyed his early years growing up on his family’s ranch in Brown County, Texas. He became an inspiration from a young age as he bravely boarded the rural school bus each morning to attend school in Blanket, Texas. His Downs Syndrome never stood in the way of his fully engaging in family, church, school and ranch activities. Returning to the family ranch was something he cherished throughout his life. Members of First Baptist Church in Blanket could rely on seeing Billy with his big smile and Bible in hand at church every Sunday. He loved his family and being a part of a life which was much larger than his learning differences. He never missed a day of reading the newspaper from start to finish. He especially thrived on all he read in the sports sections. The Dallas Cowboys and the Brownwood Lions were his favorite teams.  He was arguably was one of the greatest fans either team will ever have.

Billy attended every family gathering full of excitement to get to see his family together. His enthusiasm to have all the relatives united taught the importance of putting time with family as a top priority. His intentions were always genuine, he did not judge others, forgiveness was a given, his appreciation for everything was heartfelt. Billy’s family considers themselves grateful to have been blessed with a relative with a learning difference.

Billy and his Mother relocated to Midland, following the death of his Father. When he moved to Midland he immediately became a beloved member of the MARC family. There he continued the learning and work he had been doing at the Jamie Clements Work Center in Brownwood.  He always looked forward to visits from his brothers and hearing all that was going on at the ranch.  His family was always excited to hear of his latest job accomplishments and travels. He was happy to be a part of a community that offered him many options.

Each member of his family is grateful for the all the care givers at the Jamie Clements Work Center in Brownwood and MARC and Camarie House in Midland. They became part of his extended family. The family is especially grateful to his sister, Mary Margaret, for the over 20 years of care that she gave her brother. Her selfless dedication and love was immense and tireless.  Billy will be greatly missed by his family and everyone that knew him. He taught so many people about kindness, love and acceptance.

In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate donations to either MARC or the Bynum School.  It is our hope that the Bynum School can grow to help more members of our community receive the education, life skills and quality of life they deserve. He will be laid to rest on Sunday afternoon at 3:30 PM during graveside service at Heflin Cemetery in Brown County.  Local arrangements are under the direction of Blaylock Funeral Home.