Pastor Dorothy Burns

Pastor Dorothy Mae Burns peacefully passed away on March 7, 2026, in Saginaw, Michigan, surrounded by the love and prayers of her family. A devoted servant of God, beloved matriarch, and faithful shepherd to many, Dorothy lived a life marked by unwavering faith, joyful worship, and a deep love for her family and community.

Born Dorothy Mae Bowen on September 25, 1946, in Pensacola, Florida, to Elder John L. Bowen Sr. and Voncile Bowen, she moved with her family to Saginaw, Michigan, as a young child. She graduated from Carrollton High School as one of the first African Americans to do so, a milestone that reflected her quiet strength and perseverance. In 1966, she married Leon Burns Sr., and together they raised five children, building a strong and loving family that became one of the greatest blessings of her life.

Pastor Burns served faithfully as an Evangelist, Missionary, and Pastor, dedicating her life to sharing the Gospel and encouraging others in their walk with Christ. She helped reestablish and pastor Lighthouse Memorial Ministries in Saginaw, the church originally founded by her father, carrying forward his vision with compassion and unwavering faith. She was also a longtime, devoted member of Victorious Believers Ministries Church of God in Christ, where her powerful prayers, joyful spirit, and heartfelt worship touched countless lives.

Dorothy cherished simple pleasures such as fishing, preparing warm corn tortillas on the stove, and enjoying a hot cup of tea with cream. She is survived by her husband of more than sixty years, Leon Burns Sr.; her children, Leon (Natasha) Burns Jr., Skiry (Jeffrey) Cyborowski, Reginald Burns, Joy (Deroen) Pruitt, and Voncile (Craig) Dillon; and a large, loving family of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is also remembered by her siblings, Patricia Prescott, Geraldine Walker, Elaine Richardson-Cook, Elder Paul (Vickie) Bowen, Jeffrey Bowen, Stacey Bowen, and Brian Bowen, along with sisters-in-law, extended family, church family, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, and several nieces and nephews.

Her generous heart led her to open her home to many over the years, including Terrance Richardson, Zipporah Shrophsire, and Abraham “Abe” Bowes, whom she raised with the same nurturing love she gave her own family. Her legacy of faith, service, and unconditional love will continue through all those she shepherded and cherished.