Johnny Ray Burris

Johnny Ray Burris, 69 years old, of China Grove, passed away on April 26, 2023, at his home surrounded by his loving family following a short battle with lung cancer.  Johnny was born on March 26, 1954, in Cabarrus County to the late Robert and Doris Eidson Burris.

Johnny grew up in Landis, NC and attended South Rowan High School. After high school, he served his country as a service member of the United States Air Force. Once he fulfilled his duty to the Air Force, he attended Rowan Cabarrus Community College where he received his Electronics Engineering Degree. He worked for E.F. Belk & Son Electrical Contractors until he was hired by Philip Morris during the plant opening. He worked with Philip Morris until his retirement in 2009.

He never hesitated to help someone in need, especially when it came to electronic repairs. Johnny was always resourceful and when he encountered a problem, he would solve it and find ways to improve the solution. Woodworking was also a skill set he possessed. He created many masterpieces that his family will cherish forever, including an immaculate treehouse for his grandbabies.

His fascination for planes led him to obtain his pilot's license in the 90’s. He spent many days in the air, and often took his family and friends for rides in the sky. 

His love for his family and friends was apparent. He was an incredible storyteller and loved to share adventures of his childhood, teenage years, and his time in service. His family will hold on to and continue to share these stories to keep his memory alive.  

Even though Johnny held many titles from electrician, pilot to woodworker, his favorite role was Dad and Papaw. He gave his whole heart to his daughters and grandchildren. He enjoyed frequent trips to the mountains of Asheville to visit Susan and Madison where he loved to visit breweries and eat at his favorite restaurant, the Admiral. Johnny and Jennifer had a love for politics and would spend many hours unraveling conspiracy theories. He did his best to pass the torch to Bradley by sharing all of his handiwork knowledge. He loved watching Asher ride dirt bikes and beamed with pride during piano recitals for Ryleigh. Johnny was and will always be a protector and a provider for his family.  

A special thank you to Judy Baker Burris for taking care of him so graciously during his last days. Their love and care for one another never faded, and they always shared a common bond of love for their girls and grandbabies.    

Johnny was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Doris Eidson Burris, and his brother, Michael Burris. Those left to cherish his memory are daughters, Susan Burris and wife Madison; Jennifer Johnson and husband Bradley; two beloved grandchildren, Ryleigh and Asher Johnson; his former wife, Judy Burris; his brother, Galen Burris (Pat); his sister, Janet Nekooasl (Hesam).

The family will receive friends on Monday, May 1, 2023, from 12:00pm to 1:30pm at Whitley’s Funeral Home. A private family graveside service will follow at Carolina Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Johnny’s memory to support #GRACELYNISBRAVE, a special needs friend of Jennifer, Ryleigh, and Asher. 

Gofundme: https://gofund.me/9c4ff9d3.

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