Ruth Ann Burns, age 77, passed away July 10, 2024 at St. Francis Medical Center in Cape Girardeau, MO.

She was born November 22, 1946 in Sugar Tree, MO, daughter of the late John Kirby and Mildred Johnson-Kirby.

On October 16, 1965 in Aurora, IL she was married to Earl Burns. He preceded her in death on March 26, 2024.

Ruth Ann was a member of Diehlstadt General Baptist Church.  She was a devoted wife, a wonderful mother and grandmother.  She was sassy and made the best peanut butter cookies in the world.

She is survived by one son, Michael Burns of Sikeston, MO; one brother, George Kirby of East Prairie, MO; three grandson, Austin Burns, Lucas Burns, and Joshua Burns; and five great-grandchildren, Arian Burns, Kota Burns, Clay Burns, Killian Burns, and Maggie Ann Burns.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by four brothers, Bo Kirby, Bobby Wheatley, Harley Wheatley, and Billy Wheatley; and five sisters, Birdy Merryman, Nancy Hedges, Marie Woods, Betty Wheatley, and Bonny Brown.

Visitation will be held Monday, July 15, from 9:00 a.m. until time of funeral services at 11:00 a.m. at Diehlstadt General Baptist Church.  Randall Burns and Chris Alexander will be officiating.

Burial will follow in the East Prairie Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Shelby Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be Michael Burns, Ethan Dennis, Austin Burns, Luke Burns, Josh Burns, and Jesse McGee.