James Vandyke Burns, Jr.

Pinson, Alabama - James Vandyke Burns, Jr., affectionately known as “JB,” was born on December 3, 2003, in Anniston, Alabama, to James Vandyke Burns, Sr. and Keneeka Clay. On September 19, 2025, at the young age of 21, JB departed this earthly life in Birmingham, Alabama.

JB was a proud graduate of the Pinson Valley High School Class of 2022 in Pinson, Alabama. He was a firm believer in God and carried his faith with him in every aspect of life.

Throughout his working years, JB held positions at Amazon, Full Moon, and most recently served with compassion as a caretaker at Haymon Homes as well as helping at Morris properties.

JB never met a stranger. His warm spirit, kindness, and ability to connect with others made him a dedicated son, brother, grandson, father, and friend. He touched many lives and was truly loved by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Debra Denise Lee; grandfather, Jerry Lee Swain; great-grandmother, Anna Rebecca Harris; and cousin, Quintavius Marquez Lee.

He leaves to cherish his precious memory: his beloved daughter, Brae’Lynn Burns of Birmingham, AL; his devoted parents, Keneeka (John) Clay of Birmingham, AL and James V. Burns, Sr. of Cleveland, OH; siblings, Tyannia Burns, Xzavier Clay, Caniyah Clay, and Promise Clay, all of Birmingham, AL; aunts and uncles, Demetrice (Samantha) Lee of Anniston, AL, Sheneeka Cook of Cleveland, TN, and Markita Lee of Anniston, AL; special friends, Thaikei Cook, RayQuan Turnipseed, and Freeman Strecter; along with a host of other loving relatives and friends.

JB’s light, love, and laughter will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

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