William T.  Burns

A service of reflection and tribute for William T. “Bill” Burns, 77, was held Thursday, Dec. 27, at Courtland Baptist Church. Family and friends gathered for fellowship immediately following the service in the church’s Fellowship Hall.  Interment followed later at Forrest Memorial Park.

Mr. Burns died peacefully Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2018, at his home in Batesville.

Known as “Bill” and “Punk” to family and friends, Mr. Burns was born Aug. 13, 1947, to the late F.W. Burns and Lila Faye Moore Burns. Bill is survived by his wife of 58 years, Nancy Cook Burns; his daughter, Sherry Burns Williams; his granddaughter, Maggie Taylor Williams, all of Batesville.

He is also survived by two sisters Arthurene Ullrich and Lois Ann Bolen.

Bill was a dedicated supporter, life-long member and former deacon of Courtland Baptist Church.  Bill and Nancy founded Custom Sign Co. which they operated for over 43 years. They were also the owners of CSC Petroleum Company. His greatest passion was his work and his customers became his friends. His pleasure came from being able to help his customers and seeing them succeed.

Bill found great joy in being Papaw to his only grandchild Maggie. He loved spoiling her and different rules applied for her than they did for Sherry!

Later in life, he and Nancy along with their family enjoyed vacationing in their home in Mountain View, Ark. They acquired another “family” in Mountain View where they spent many evenings listening to friends play mountain music.

Many will remember Bill for his anonymous generosity to help others in the community, but his favorite contribution to the community was the annual 4th of July fireworks display held at his home on Highway 35.