Laurel L. Burns

BURNS, Laurel L., age 73, of Swartz Creek, peacefully passed away on February 13, 2024. Funeral Services will be held Friday, February 21, 2025, at 3:00 PM, with a visitation and luncheon starting at 2:00 PM, at the First United Methodist Church of Jackson, located at 275 W Michigan Ave, Jackson, MI 49201. Visitation will also take place from 2:00-8:00 PM on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at Sharp Funeral Homes, Miller Road Chapel, 8138 Miller Rd., Swartz Creek, MI 48473. Memorial contributions may be made to the family of Laurel L. Burns to support causes she cared deeply about. Donations can be sent via PayPal at mjburnsy@gmail.com or by mail to Matthew Burns, 9515 Hill Rd, Swartz Creek, MI 48473. Laurel lived a life dedicated to family and faith. First, as a mother to her only child, Matthew, and later as a beloved grandmother to Mason and Lillian. She never missed an event for either generation, always attending every sporting event, scouting event, or school activity. Her unwavering presence and encouragement left a lasting impact on her family and friends. Always engaged in her community, Laurel was a devoted volunteer and leader throughout the Swartz Creek and greater Flint area. She was an active member of the Jaycees and Kiwanis, eventually serving as president of both organizations’ local chapters. She was also a dedicated member of the GFWC Swartz Creek Woman’s Club, Friends of the Perkins Library, a City of Swartz Creek election worker, and a volunteer usher at the Whiting Auditorium. Beyond these official roles, Laurel gave generously of her time in countless ways. She regularly assisted at soup kitchens and food pantries, always seeking opportunities to serve those in need. Her spirit of generosity extended to her family, with her grandchildren following her example, learning the joy of selfless giving through her actions. She never hesitated to contribute to causes close to her heart, regularly donating to My Brother’s Keeper, Operation Christmas Child, and Carriage Town Ministries. She lovingly collected and donated children’s books, Bibles, and toys to be sent alongside disaster relief supplies, ensuring that even in hardship, children could find comfort and joy. Laurel demonstrated her faith through action. She served as a Sunday School teacher and later as a church secretary at Swartz Creek United Methodist Church. In later years, she was an active member of Flushing Presbyterian Church, where she found a warm and welcoming faith community. Lake Michigan held a special place in Laurel’s heart, serving as both a retreat and a place of purpose. She spent countless hours along its shores, camping with family and friends, and finding peace in the beautiful sunsets. Her love extended beyond personal enjoyment-later in life, she dedicated much of her time volunteering at Lake Michigan Family Campground, where she helped create a welcoming space for others to make their own cherished memories. Laurel was born on August 13, 1951, in Jackson, MI, to the late E. Kenneth and Meribah (Westcott) Clark. She earned a bachelor's degree from Central Michigan University, where she majored in Outdoor Education and minored in Home Economics. For 27 years, Laurel proudly owned an Allstate Insurance agency in Swartz Creek, reflecting her dedication to her community and career. Laurel is survived by her beloved son, Matthew (Rhyannon) Burns of Swartz Creek; her cherished grandchildren, Mason and Lillian Burns; her brother, Brian Clark of Jackson; her sister, Cindi Wanek of South Dakota; and numerous nieces and nephews, including Jeremy (Crystal) Clark, Barry Clark, Catherine (Kevin) Daly, Kelcy (Riley) Schoenfelder, and Kaitlin (Stephen) Klopfenstein. She was preceded in death by her parents, sister-in-law Judy Clark, brother-in-law Mark Wanek, leaving behind a lasting legacy of love and service to her family and community. Tributes and memories may be shared at www.sharpfuneralhomes.com. Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the many lives she touched.