Yvonne Burns

Yvonne Rose Burns, née Needy, was born on October 6, 1940, in Brawley, California, to John and Thelma Needy. She passed away peacefully at her home in Brawley on October 21, 2026, at the age of 86.
Yvonne dedicated her life to educating and inspiring children in her community. Throughout her remarkable 52-year career in education, she served as a teacher, principal, and school board member. Teaching was more than a career to Yvonne; it was her passion. Many will remember Mrs. Burns as a dedicated and passionate educator who loved her job and looked forward to going to work each day. Her impact reached far beyond the classroom, touching the lives of countless children, families, and colleagues throughout the years.
Yvonne was an active member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, which was truly her second home. Her faith was an important part of her life, and her church community was like a second family to her.
A perfectionist in the best and sometimes most determined way, Yvonne took great pride in everything she did. Perhaps that is why her quilts always turned out so beautifully. She loved sewing, quilting, traveling, and, most of all, spending time with her family and friends. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her tremendous joy, and she treasured the time she spent with each of them. She also had a playful side and a special fondness for gambling and a good game of poker.
Yvonne will be remembered for her dedication to her students, her strong faith, her attention to detail, and the love she gave to those around her. She leaves behind a legacy of education, service, and family that will continue for generations. While she will be deeply missed by all who knew her, she will be especially missed by the family who loved her so dearly.
Yvonne was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Eugene Burns; her son, Mark Burns; and her brother, JL Needy.
She is survived by her son, Timothy Burns, and his wife, Debra Burns; and her daughter, Lori Hamby, and her husband, Steve Hamby.
She also leaves behind five grandchildren: Alyssa Bohner (Matthew Bohner), Haley Tucker (Quentin Tucker), Nathan Hamby (Rosalie Hamby), Tyler Hamby, and Taylor Fultz (Arik Fultz).
Her greatest blessings continue through her eight great-grandchildren: Riley Bohner, Rusty Tucker, Dutton Tucker, Owen Bohner, Brynleigh Tucker, Ernie Hamby, Emmett Fultz, and Natalie Hamby.
Yvonne's life was one of purpose, faith, and love. From the many children she taught to the family she cherished, she leaves behind countless memories and a lasting legacy. Her presence will be missed, but the lessons she taught, the traditions she created, and the love she shared will live on in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known her.
A mass will be held on Friday, November 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Brawley, California. Rosary at 9:30am. After mass there will be a procession to Riverview Cemetery for the internment. A reception will follow at Sacred Heart Church.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations made in Yvonne's memory to Sacred Heart Church - Faith Formation in Brawley.