Joan Westall Burns

Joan Westall Burns, a cherished wife, devoted mother, beloved grandmother, and treasured friend, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of April 4, 2024. Joan was surrounded by the love of her family as she embarked on her final journey.

Born into this world with a heart full of love on June 1, 1935 to the late Elbert Cephas Duckett and Annie Mae Hogan Duckett. She was also preceded in death by her sister Elaine Duckett Broyles. Joan dedicated her life to the values that mattered most to her: faith, family, and friendship. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, kindness, and unwavering love that will be remembered and cherished by all who were fortunate enough to have known her.

Joan was the epitome of love and devotion, a wonderful wife to her husband, Garson Burns, who preceded her in death in 2021, and previously to James Westall, who passed away much before that, both having bravely battled cancer. She was a nurturing mother to her children James and Susan, and a doting Nana to her grandchildren Kellie, Maggie, and Tucker. Her great-grandchildren, Aspen and Cooper, were the light of her life, bringing her immeasurable joy and filling her heart with love.

Throughout her life, Joan brought people together with her exceptional cooking skills and her talent for entertaining. Her home was always filled with laughter, delicious aromas, and the warmth of her hospitality. With a keen fashion sense, Joan exuded elegance and grace in every aspect of her life.

Joan’s gratitude extended beyond measure to the medical community, Sunny Days, and Hospice who provided her with care and support throughout her journey. Their dedication and compassion eased her burdens and allowed her to focus on what mattered most – her faith and family.

Although Joan’s physical presence will be deeply missed, her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. She has left an indelible mark on the lives of those she touched, and her memory will continue to inspire love, kindness, and gratitude for generations to come.

In honoring Joan’s life, let us celebrate the love she shared, the joy she brought, and the legacy of kindness she leaves behind. May she rest in eternal peace, knowing that her love will continue to shine brightly in the lives of those she cherished.

A Funeral Service to celebrate Joan’s life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, April 13, 2024 at Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian. The family will receive friends one hour before the service at the funeral home. Burial will then follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Candler.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Four Seasons Hospice www.fourseasonscare.org

Forever in our hearts, Joan Westall Burns will be dearly missed but never forgotten