Cyrus Samuel Burns

Cyrus Samuel Burns, II, 76, of Roanoke, Virginia, passed away at home surrounded by his family on Monday, February 9, 2026, after an extended battle with cancer. He was born on May 14, 1949, to the late Claude William Burns, Sr and Virginia Lucille Burns. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Carolyn Leigh McMullen; a grandson, Wyatt Samuel David Burns; and a nephew, Harvey Noel Plecker, Jr.

Sam was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Sam had a deep love for fishing, hunting, and all things outdoors. He was happiest in nature or at the lake and took great pride in sharing his knowledge and expertise of turkey calling, deer hunting, and fishing with others. He was a longtime member of the Bath County Piney Mountain Cloggers, where he competed for many years and built long-lasting friendships through music and dance. More recently, he relished being part of the Striper Gang at Smith Mountain Lake, where he was affectionately known as Ol’ Fart and loved sharing his passion for fishing, always keeping the secret spots sacred.

Sam will be remembered for his love of family, his steady presence, his love for the outdoors, and the way he generously shared his knowledge, stories, and time with those he loved

He is survived by his beloved wife of 32 years, Karen Scott Burns; children, Chris Anthony Burns and wife, Tara, Samuel Cyrus Burns, III, Heather Lindstrom and husband, Rob; and his cherished grandchildren, Caybll , Brooklyn, Kentlee, and Lakyn. Sisters, Claudia Jo Terry and Elizabeth Ann Clements; brother, C.W. Burns; sister-in-law, Cindy Scott; special greatnephew, Austin Dean; special great nieces Mikayla McMullen and Karleigh McMullen, Cassandra Scott, who spent much time with him over the years.

A celebration of Sam’s life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, February 13, 2026, at Emmanuel Wesleyan Church at 402 Hershberger Road, NW, Roanoke, Virginia 24012, with Pastor Bobby Ferguson officiating. The family will receive friends one hour before the service, starting at 2:00 p.m.

To honor Sam’s love of the outdoors, please consider a donation to the Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center in his name at swvawildlifecenter.org or checks can be mailed to Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center, P.O. Box 20972, Roanoke, Virginia 24018.

The family would like to thank everyone for their love and kindness shown during this time. Each message, call, prayers and act of kindness has brought us comfort as we remember and celebrate Sam’s life.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Roanoke, is assisting the family.