Debra Burns

Debra Mae Burns, age 65, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by the love of her family on Sunday, March 3, 2024. She was born July 10, 1958, in Grand Rapids to the late Franklin and Verna Mae (Henning) Burns. Debbie had a great sense of humor and found joy in making others laugh. She loved her family dearly and having cookouts with them was always a favorite time of hers. Survivors include her grandchildren, Ryan Pettey “Little Big Guy”, Maxi Mae Grinwis, and Steven Grinwis; life partner, Ben Potes; her siblings, Judy, Sandy, Shirley, and Bobby; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Debbie was preceded in death by her daughter, Stacey Grinwis; her parents; and siblings, Terry, Ray, Lynn, and Connie. A memorial service will be celebrated on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at Oakhill Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 1930 Leonard Street NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505, at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Jeffrey Carlson officiating and a luncheon to follow. Her cremated remains will be buried at Rosedale Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be given to Heartland Hospice – the Gentiva Foundation (click the link below to donate online) or to Oakhill Evangelical Presbyterian Church, Grand Rapids. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Debbie’s sister, Judy; niece, Connie; and great-nieces, Alexis and Crystal for helping care for Debbie over the past years. A special thank you to Aunt Ruth who would lift Debbie’s spirits and send words of encouragement through cards and care packages sent from California, to Anne Pettey who has been a constant and longtime friend and support system for Debbie no matter what, and to Heartland Hospice for their care and support throughout this difficult time. To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Debbie’s online guest book, or to share a favorite memory or photo, please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids, 616-452-3006. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Debra Burns, please visit our flower store.