On Monday November 13 2023 John P Burns Jr, beloved father and Naval veteran, passed away.  He was 82 and survived by his only daughter, Sarah Burns. Born October 28, 1941 to Kathryn and John P Burns Sr in Philadelphia PA, he graduated from Penn Charter High School in 1959. "J. P." made his first trip past South Philly when he came to the golden shores of the US Naval Academy in the fall of 1959. While at the Academy he played on the soccer, wrestling and crew teams besides being active in the Chess and Newman Clubs, and writing for the Trident and Splinter. "Burnsie" was always a supporter of Mid Rac and a leader in the Elbow Bending Society. He graduated from the US Naval Academy in 1963 with a Electrical Engineering degree then honorably served his country from 1963-1967. 

After completing his military service John traveled the mainland US, leaving Long Beach California he drove east and discovered his love for skiing at the Rustler Lodge in Alta Utah later continuing on to New Orleans, LA. John returned to continue his education, graduating Stanford in 1972 with an MBA then a Phd in Law from Catholic University in 1974. He moved to Northern Virginia and joined the Virginia State Bar in 1975 then zealously defended clients for over 40 years. Throughout his career he worked as an Adjunct Professor at George Mason, Georgetown, and William & Mary law schools. John became a member of the American Association of Trial Lawyers in 2004.

In the 1990s John created the Gaelic American Soccer club in Northern Virginia spending many years playing, coaching, and developing the soccer community which survives today. His efforts included forming a club with teams at multiple skill levels and scheduling international teams to visit Northern Virginia. He always found time to coach his daughters soccer teams and referee in Reston soccer recreational leagues. 

John born a Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies fan later became an avid fan of the Washington Nationals, Washington Capitals, and Washington Commanders. John and Sarah spent many evenings at Capitals games and practices, enjoying a football game, watching the World Cup, or recounting why she became a Yankee fan. He passed along his strong work ethic, enthusiasm for football, & love of this country to only surviving daughter.

Celebration of Life was held on Friday January 19 2024 at the Hidden Creek Country Club in Reston Virginia. Future events are being planned, to be included in updates complete the form below.