James M. Burns Jr., 76, of Bear, DE, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, February 12, 2023, after a brief illness.

Jim was born in Carteret, NJ, the son of the late Elizabeth (Clifton) and James M. Burns. In addition to his parents, Jim was predeceased by his sister, Mary McKinnen. Jim was a graduate of Woodstown High School. He owned and operated Preferred Builders as a general contractor for over 25 years. Jim was a motorcycle enthusiast who loved to ride with friends. He was also a musician and loved playing and listening to "doo-wop" music. He would take his wife dancing from the time they were young adults to the recent present. Along with coaching youth club hockey, he was also the assistant coach for his grandson's team at DMA from 2011-2014 and was known as "Coach Pop Pop" to all the players. Jim was a social butterfly - he made  friends everywhere he went. But the closest friendship he had was with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His greatest joy was sharing Jesus with those around him.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Carol L. (Bailey) Burns; his daughters, Denise Sparks and her husband George, of Elsinboro, NJ;  Angela Burns of Mechanicsburg, PA; Nicole Burns of Millsboro DE., as well as his grandchildren, Shannon (Brian); Jesse (Amber); Rebecca (Nick); Caitlyn; Nicholas; Megan; and Courtney; his great-grandchildren, Karsyn, Luca, Elena, Parker, Brynlee and Ryder, in addition to many other beloved nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his sister, April Shinn and her husband, Pat.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit at the MEALEY FUNERAL HOME, 2509 Limestone Road, Wilmington on Monday, Feb. 20, from 12:00 to 1:30 PM. A service will begin at 1:30 PM. Burial will be private.