John Hagyard Burns (Bob), 86, passed away on February 1, 2022 at Baptist Health in Lexington.

Born in Lexington, KY on February 3, 1935 to Goldman Luther Burns (Billy) and Mary Potts Hagyard Burns, Bob, older sister Barbara, and family lived in Midway, KY in his early years. They soon moved to Lexington where he attended Russell Cave School, and graduated from Lafayette High School in 1954. He later earned an Associates from UK Lexington Technical Institute and a B.S. from EKU.

He began his career in the Lexington Fire Department in 1959, moving through the ranks over a career spanning 30 years. On March 17, 1989 Bob retired as Assistant Chief, though he wasn’t finished with the fire theme. His next endeavor saw him partner with fellow firefighters Foxie Blanton and Lionel Gumm to start a business, VSI, selling and servicing fire trucks around the state for over 25 years. All the while, he was helping raise cattle and tobacco on the family’s farm in Athens.

In 1978, Bob and his wife, Bettye, welcomed their first son, Robert Angus Hagyard Burns, also a firefighter and for whom the theme of fire continues strongly. Their second son, Ian Shea Campbell Burns, came in 1981, and for whom Bob’s passion for sports car racing, which saw him race for several years in both SCCA and IMSA races, was passed.

Bob is survived by wife Bettye, sons Angus (Mandy) and Shea (Erica), grandson Gallagher Rourke Burns, sister Barbara Burns Ruff, and several nephews.

Visitation will be held at Crestwood Christian Church on Saturday, February 12, 2022 at 12pm with memorial service/celebration of life to follow at 2pm.

In his memory, share a good meal with friends and family, sit down with a good book, take a nap in your driveway or favorite chair, or donate to your favorite charity.

Care Cremation and Funeral Service is honored to be entrusted with final care.