Thomas R. “T.J.” Burns, age 42, died Monday, September 7, 2009 at his residence in Erie after a 15-year courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Erie on March 2, 1967, the son of Antoinette Burns of Erie and the late Thomas R. Burns, Sr. T.J. was a 1985 graduate of Strong Vincent High School where he played football. He also played softball for the Erie Co. Church League in Erie. He had been employed with the City of Erie Garbage Dept. prior to his illness, and had also worked at Dee’s Cigar Store and Burns Roofing. T.J. served in the U.S. Marine Corps. He was an avid fisherman, hunter and Pittsburgh Steelers fan; and also enjoyed camping.

He is survived by one son, Dillion Burns and two daughters, Thomasina and Jovana Burns all of Erie; stepson, Michael Nellie of Erie; the mother of his children, Denae McCarthy Burns; one sister, Tonna Porfilio (Brian Lorei); two brothers, Robert Burns (Staci) and David Burns all of Erie; three grandchildren, Malaya Nelli, Giovanina Nelli and Michael A. Nelli, Jr.; several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Friends may call at the Dusckas Funeral Home, Inc., West, 536 West 10th Street on Wednesday from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. until the time of the Funeral Service there at 8:00 p.m. conducted by Rev. Gene Kennett of the Interfaith Worship Center.