Burris

John Vincent Burris, 80, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, educator, coach, mentor and man of deep faith, passed away from cancer on Thursday, Sept. 10, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Butler, to James and Nora Burris, John lived a life grounded in his love for God and his family. His faith was not simply something he believed, it was reflected in the way he lived. He had a generous heart, a genuine compassion for others and a desire to help people whenever he could. He believed deeply in grace, kindness and serving others, and those values touched countless lives throughout his life.

John dedicated much of his career to North Hills High School in Pennsylvania, where he served as a history teacher and guidance counselor. With a lifelong love of history and a genuine interest in educating youth, he had a gift for teaching, listening and helping students find their way. His passion for education extended to higher education as an adjunct professor at Duquesne University and the University of Pittsburgh, where he shared his knowledge and experience with graduate students, teaching courses in counseling.

John’s commitment to education and his desire to serve others also led him to help start an after-school mentoring program in Sarasota, Fla., dedicated to providing opportunities for disadvantaged children. He believed every child deserved someone who believed in them and the opportunity to learn, grow and build a better future. For John, helping others was a natural expression of his faith and the way he believed God called him to live.

John was an avid golfer and a lifelong fan of the sport. He served as the North Hills High School golf coach and enjoyed mentoring players, teaching them lessons about perseverance, integrity, humility and character. Personally, he spent countless hours honing his own game and even enjoyed refurbishing old golf clubs.

A proud Pennsylvanian, John was a devoted Pittsburgh Steelers fan. His loyalty to the black and gold never wavered, and Steelers football was something he loved sharing with family and friends.

Above all else, John treasured being a husband, father and grandfather. He was the loving husband of Patricia Burris, the proud father of three children, Kelly, Deanna and Jason, and two stepchildren, Lauren and John, and a devoted grandfather. Of all the roles and accomplishments in his life, none meant more to him than his family. They were his greatest joy and the center of his life.

His grandchildren especially loved his hilarious sense of humor and wonderful imagination, which came to life through treasure hunts, fictional characters, made-up games and countless moments that became treasured family memories.

Those fortunate enough to know John will remember his faith, his character, his love of history, his commitment to education, and most of all, his devotion to family. They will remember a teacher who inspired, a counselor who listened, a coach who mentored, and a man who gave generously of himself to others. His life was a reflection of the values he held closest which included faith, family, compassion and service.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Nora and Jim; his siblings, Jim, Donna and Patricia; his daughter, Kelly; and his granddaughter, Katie.

John’s legacy lives on through his loving wife, Patricia; his children and stepchildren and their spouses; his eight grandchildren; and his loving sister, Nancy.

John was deeply loved, will be deeply missed and will never be forgotten. His family takes comfort in knowing that the faith that guided him throughout his life also gave him peace at its end, and in the promise that this goodbye is not forever.

A private celebration of life will be held at The Bridge Church in Venice, Fla., for family and friends.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family asks that donations be made to The Bridge Church’s Benevolence Fund, which provides assistance to individuals and families in financial need. Donations can be made online at The Bridge Church Giving: https://thebridge.churchcenter.com/giving. Please select “Benevolence Fund” when making your donation.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.