James “Jimmy” Robert Burns, a third-generation rancher from Nara Visa, NM, passed away on Feb., 24, 2024 at his ranch.
SERVICES: Services will be held at the Nara Visa Community Center Auditorium in Nara Visa with Rosary will be recited at 6:00 PM Mountain Time (7:00 PM Central Time) on Tuesday, February 27th by Deacon Arnold Schwertner and Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 AM Mountain Time (11:00 AM Central Time) on Wednesday, February 28th with Fr. John Paul as celebrant. Burial will follow in the West Nara Visa Cemetery by Hass Funeral Directors of Clayton. Please visit www.hassfuneralhome.com to view the online obituary and sign the guest book.
Jimmy Burns, a devout Catholic and devoted follower of Jesus Christ, departed this earthly realm on February 24, 2024, at his family ranch in Nara Visa, New Mexico. He was 64 years old. His departure leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him and he will be remembered for his kindness and generosity.
Jimmy was raised on the ranch in Nara Visa, New Mexico and graduated from Amistad High School in 1978. He attended TSTI in Amarillo, where he earned a welding certification. Jimmy and Liz were married in 1982 and shared 41 years of marriage, raising a family and working the ranch together after Liz retired from teaching.
He is survived by his wife Liz Burns, son Derek Burns and wife Keri, daughter Ashlee Fairbank and husband Ryan, grandchildren Eva, Braxton, Wyatt, Rex, Grace, Grant and Claire. His brother John Burns (Mike), sisters Barbara Stoll (Rick) and Kellee Clark (Terry), mother-in-law Juanita Libby and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Jim and Willie Burns, John and Maysie Burns, his parents, Bob and Pat Burns and a son Kirk Burns.
As a cattleman, Jimmy built a commercial cattle herd that is considered to be one of the best around. He worked hard to care for his ranching operation and his cattle and that hard work showed in the quality of calves he produced each year. Jimmy loved the ranching lifestyle, being horseback and working with his friends and family around the ranch and in the branding pen.
Jimmy will be missed as a good neighbor and friend.
Jimmy’s grandchildren were the joy of his life. He ran races with them, played football and basketball, taught them how to ride horses and drive the feed truck. He was a proud and loving “Papa” to all his grandchildren.
Jimmy’s legacy will live on through the enduring influence he had on all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was a kind, gentle and patient man and had many friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the Nara Visa Community Center in honor of Jimmy and Liz’s stewardship and commitment to the Nara Visa Community.
