Peter James “Jim” Burns — Hansen-Spear

Peter James “Jim” Burns, beloved father, grandfather, brother, and devoted educator, passed away peacefully on May 17, 2025, at the age of 86.

Born on March 1, 1939, to Dorothy and Peter Burns, Jim was raised in a tight-knit, scrappy neighborhood on Chicago’s South Side, surrounded by Irish immigrant families. From an early age, he was full of grit and spirit—qualities he carried throughout his life. He attended St. Justin Martyr and later De La Salle High School, where he played football as a small but fearless halfback.

After high school, Jim answered a higher calling and joined the Christian Brothers Order, devoting his early adulthood to service, faith, and education. He traveled across the country repairing Catholic schools and building playgrounds and swimming pools—hands-on work that reflected his tireless devotion to God and community. These formative years would shape the rest of his life.

Jim later attended Quincy College, where he met his first wife, Barbara. Together, they raised two sons, William and Pete, instilling in them the same values of compassion, hard work, and faith that defined Jim’s life.

Jim made Quincy his home for over 55 years—a place he cherished deeply. He loved its river views, tree-lined streets, and close knit community. What began as a college town became a community he embraced fully, pouring his energy into local causes, friendships, and spiritual life. Whether walking the paths he forged along the banks of the river, volunteering on community boards, or chatting with neighbors at his son Bill’s coffee shop, Jim’s quiet presence left a lasting mark on the town he came to love as his own.

He remarried in 1985, to Mary Black. The two enjoyed a joyful life together, highlighted by 14 annual pilgrimages to their beloved Ireland. A proud Irish-American, Jim’s greatest adventure came when he climbed Croagh Patrick in 2005, honoring his heritage and spiritual journey. Mary passed away in 2010, and her memory remained close to Jim’s heart throughout his life.
Professionally, Jim dedicated himself to vocational education, earning a Master’s degree in Education. He served for many years at John Wood Community College, where he mentored and supported countless students.

Even in retirement, Jim’s dedication to service—and his trusty computer—never rested. With other local leaders, he co-founded the Community Justice Council, a grassroots effort to support and uplift all Quincy communities. He was a quiet but steadfast champion of social justice, always working behind the scenes to make life better for others.

The final chapter of Jim’s life was devoted to his lifelong pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. Alongside his beloved partner, Deborah Lee, the two biked across the Midwest, traveled the country, and together sought peace and balance in every aspect of their lives. Their partnership brought him great joy, healing, and fulfillment.

Jim is survived by his sons, William Burns and Pete Burns; his grandchildren, Emma (15) and Sean (11); his siblings Dorothy (and Hank), Marie (and Jerry), Thomas (and Jeanne), and Karen (and Rod); and his sister-in-law, Peg.

He was preceded in death by his brother Jeremy.

A man of deep faith, boundless energy, and unwavering kindness, Jim leaves behind a legacy of service, love, and quiet heroism.

Visitation: 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 23, 2025 at Hansen Spear Funeral Home.

Memorial Service: 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 24, 2025 at Unitarian Church with a reception to follow.

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his honor to Bella Ease or the Unitarian Church. Memorial donations may be made on line at: https://memorials.hansenspear.com/

www.hansenspear.com

Hansen-Spear Funeral Directors are in charge of arrangements.