Benson Mitchell Burns

Benson Mitchell Burns was born July 19, 1937 in Nashville, Tennessee to the late George Burns and the late Aline McKenzie Burns. He departed this life on July 12, 2026 at his home in Summerville. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of more than 40 years, Shirley Taylor Burns, whom he married on September 1, 1956. We delight in knowing what a reunion they must have had in heaven. He was also proceeded in death by brothers John William (Bo) Burns, Charlie Burns, and Raymond (Champ) Burns as well as his son-in-law, Mickey Harding.

After graduating from Father Ryan High School in 1956, he enlisted in the United States Navy where he proudly served for 20 years. After retiring from the Navy, he worked for Life Cycle Engineering until his retirement. In retirement, he enjoyed golfing and going to the YMCA as well as attending his church. He is survived by his six children, Vicki Ann Harding, Joan Collazo (Steve), Pam Johnson (Chris), Tony Burns, Michael Burns, and Chris Burns. He is also survived by his 11 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren as well as his brother, Dean Burns, and sister Connie (Wayne) Phelps both of Nashville.

He was always a very distinguished sharp dressed man who took great pride in all that he did. He loved his family, he loved his friends, and he always loved driving a BMW of which he had many over the years. He loved keeping up with family and old friends in Nashville, but he also loved his Summerville community and supporting their local sports teams.

Services will be held on Friday, July 17 at St. John the Beloved Catholic Church in Summerville. Visitation at 1:00, Funeral at 2:00, and burial to follow at Dorchester Memory Gardens.