Gene Alva Burns, 64, of Walnut Ridge passed away Monday, May 29, 2017 at his home. He was born February 11, 1953 to James and Helen Jean Burns in West Memphis. He attended Mississippi University where he obtained his engineering degree and retired as an engineer from the Department of Agriculture in 2011. He was also a former employee of the Walnut Ridge Police Department and Hill Bros. Construction.

He is preceded in death by his parents; grandparents, A.B. and Ella Burns and Mickey Stetzel; brother Jimmy Burns; son, Tony Burns.

Survivors include his fiancé, Debbie Hime Hanshaw of the home; daughters, Chanda Milligan (Mike) of Paragould, Megan Burns of Alexandria, Louisiana and Stephanie Davis Roberts of Walnut Ridge; brother, Allen Burns (Cindy) of Imboden; sisters, Debbi Lewis of Van Buren, Darla Romine (T.J.) of Jonesboro, Jana Poteete of Hoxie; grandchildren, Taylor Rogers (Zach), Emilee Riggs, Anna, Katelyn and Karsyn Milligan of Paragould, Zane, Gage and Luke Roberts of Walnut Ridge; great grandson, Lawson Ty Rogers;  four nieces, nine nephews and many other relatives and friends.

Memorial Service will be held Saturday, June 3, 2017 at 2 p.m. at Cox Funeral Home in Walnut Ridge with Dr. Dennis Bradley and Bro. Terry Vandergriff officiating.  All arrangements are under the direction of Cox Funeral Home in Walnut Ridge.