Willie Gene “Bill” Burns, of Sparta, passed away peacefully, on Aug. 10, 2025, at his home in White County, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on July 13, 1950, in Cookeville, Bill was 75 years old. For 50 blessed years, Bill shared his life with his devoted wife, Polly Ann Burns. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, and faith.
He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Mayberry, and his mother, Reba Nell Burns Young, and his stepfather, Edward Young.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Polly Ann; his sons, Matthew (Olivia) Burns, of Woodbury; Jonathan (Kelley) Burns, of Sparta; four treasured grandchildren, Charlie, Fallon, Colson, and Hudson. He is also survived by his brothers and sisters, whose support meant so much to him: David Mayberry (Virginia), Mark Mayberry (Texas), Deborah Towles (North Carolina), Daniel Mayberry (Tennessee), Maggie Matheny (Tennessee), John Mayberry (Tennessee), and James Mayberry (Tennessee). He also had three adopted grandchildren in Sparta: Halle, Haden, and Henlie Coble.
Bill was more than a master mechanic—he was a man who could do it all. If it had an engine, he knew how to make it better, louder, and faster. His talents eventually led him to become known as “Sparta’s John Deere man,” earning trophies in every weight category for his remarkable tractor-pulling skills. He was the “nightwatchman” at Bible Camp, and the tall tales of his activities will live in many generations.
Yet, the heart of Bill’s life was his family. Whether it was a backyard cookout featuring his famous burger sauce or a breakfast with his special coated bacon, any day spent together was his favorite day. One of his greatest accomplishments was leading his family to the Lord. Becoming an Elder at West Sparta Church of Christ was a great joy to his family, and his influence will continue to guide many in the future.
Visitation will be 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Aug. 16, 2025, at West Sparta Church of Church, with the funeral service at 2 p.m. Burial will take place in Oak Lawn Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Short Mountain Bible Camp, in Woodbury, Tennessee. Please send all checks to Jonathan Burns, at 505 North Spring Street, Sparta, Tennessee 38583 addressed to Short Mountain Bible Camp.
Oak Lawn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
