Willard E. Burns

Willard E. Burns 93, of Franklin, went to be with Our Lord, Wednesday, April 3, 2019, after a brief stay at The Caring Place.

Willard was born on January 28, 1926 on the family farm located on Buttermilk Hill in Sugarcreek Township. He was the son of the late Fell and Asenath (McDaniel) Burns and the younger brother of the late Raymond Burns and wife Ailene. He was a graduate of Rocky Grove High School, attended Grove City College and Cleveland (OH) Barber School.

He was self-employed as the owner of Burns' Barber Shop in Franklin for over 60 years where he cut hair for many friends and family. He was also an officer for the Journeymen Barbers, Hairdressers, & Cosmetologists Local 157. He served as Township Supervisor and Auditor for Sandycreek Township, as well as the Venango County Association of Township Supervisors as an officer for many years.

Willard was a member of Christ United Methodist Church in Franklin, PA. Previously, he attended Rocky Grove Avenue Presbyterian Church, where he served as a Deacon and Elder for many years. He also served as Chaplain for the Venango Lodge #255 International Order of Odd Fellows.

Willard enjoyed gardening, and took pride in his flowers and garden every year. He also enjoyed working with jigsaw puzzles, collecting stamps, and caring for the birds and goldfish at his home.

Willard is survived by the love of his life, Lois Young, who he married on May 30, 1953 at the Grace EV Church in Rocky Grove by Lois's Uncle, Dr. Rev. James M Guthrie, and she survives.

He is also survived by their three children: Willard (Chip) Burns, Jr. and his wife Joan, of Butler; Darlene Eakin and husband Richard (Dick) of Franklin; and Sandra Burns-Lewis, of Franklin, four grandchildren: Christina Hanna and friend Charles Smyth of Oil City; Willard (C.J.) Burns, III of Saxonburg, Ashley Burns, of Seven Fields, and Amanda Lewis, of Franklin. He is survived by many nieces and nephews.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Huff - Guthrie Funeral Home & Cremation Services Inc., 312 West Park St. Franklin where family and friends are welcome from Noon - 4:00 P.M Sunday.

Additional visitation will be held from 9:45 - 10:45 A.M. Monday in Christ United Methodist Church 1135 Buffalo St. Franklin.

A Funeral Service will follow at 11:00 A.M. in the Church with Rev. Sam Wagner and Rev. Darrell Greenawalt, Church Pastors, officiating.

Interment will follow at Franklin Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to Christ United Methodist Church, 1135 Buffalo St. Franklin, PA 16323.

Online condolences and flowers may be sent to the family by visiting www.HuffFuneral.com.