July 26, 2005

Coach Willie Burns Sr. passes away at the age of 72

MOBILE, Ala. -- Willie Hosea Burns, Sr., (Sleepy) age 72, a life-long resident of Prichard, Alabama and the assistant women’s tennis coach at the University of Mobile for the past three years, died peacefully on Sunday, July 24, 2005 at a local hospital.

Burns was a member of the Greater Ruth Chapel A.M.E Church and played shortstop for the Kansas City Monarchs in the Negro Baseball League.  He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Beatrice Burns of Prichard, Alabama. Burns also had six children; Willie (Chelice) Burns, Brenda (Ricky) Nettles, Karen (Alvin) Williams, Beatrice (Albert) Rodgers, Patricia Burns and Andre Lucas, all of Mobile.

Coach Burns (far right) at the 2005 GCAC Tournament

He also had 19 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and devoted friends.

His remains can be viewed at Christian Benevolent Funeral Home on Wednesday, July 27, 2005 from 12 p.m. until 5 p.m. and after 9 a.m. on Thursday, July 28, 2005 at Ruth Chapel A.M.E. Church, 1214 Rich Ave., Prichard, Alabama. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. at which time the Pastor, Rev. David Campbell will conduct the funeral service. Interment will follow in Gathsemane North Cemetery.

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