Harry Edgar Burns, Jr.

With heavy hearts, the Burns family shares the passing of Harry Edgar Burns, Jr. of Lexington, South Carolina, who completed his earthly journey on June 4, 2026, at age 77.

Harry was an enthusiastic lover of life, his family, and the Lord.

He was born in Columbia, South Carolina, and he grew up in several places, including Camden, North Augusta, Key West (FL), and Charleston. After graduating from St. Andrews High School in Charleston, he completed his B.S. degree in civil engineering at the University of South Carolina. A 34-year career followed as Bridge Design Engineer and Squad Leader at South Carolina Department of Transportation.

Harry is survived by his wife of 51 years, Ninette Watson Burns, daughters, Kathryn Nelson of Austin, Texas, Lauren Hodges (Jamie) of Gainesville, Florida, and son, Harrison Burns (Susan), of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He has five special grandchildren: Siobhan and Genevieve Nelson, Jameson and Lawson Hodges, and Ryan Burns. He was predeceased by his parents, Iva Mae Broome Burns and Harry Edgar “Eddie” Burns, Sr., and brothers, Bobby, Hal, and Dannie. He leaves behind a sister, Cynthia Burns duPont (Nicholas) and extended family. His family extends thanks to Timbergate neighbors, St. Stephen’s church family, and special friends/family Jim and Doris New, Laurie Jordan, and Ann Bridwell.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 3:00 pm at St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church, 119 North Church Street, Lexington, SC with Pastors Jason Antley and Ralph Hill officiating. Visitation will follow at 4:15 pm with a reception at the church.

Honorary pallbearers are James Harold Burns, Jr. (Jay), Alton Wilson, Greg and Carolyn Peck, James New, Jim Privette, William Billingsley, and Glenn Hayes. Vocalists are family friend, Robert Johnson and niece, Jacquelyn Burns. South Carolina Cremation Society is assisting the family. Donations can be made to St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church.

Harry’s leisure time was spent on family activities, enjoying beach music, bargain hunting, volunteering at Lexington Medical Center, and sharing computer skills with others. Harry’s family remembers him greeting each new day by flinging the curtains wide open and proclaiming, “Good morning, world!” His legacy of love, faith, and laughter will endure in the hearts of those who love him.