M. Christine Burns, 87, of rural Macy, Indiana, passed peacefully at 8:00 am, Sunday, October 26, 2025 at home.
Christine was born on December 30, 1937, in Rochester, Indiana, to the late Calvin Keller and June R. (Ault) Hartman. A 1955 graduate of Akron High School, she earned the distinction of salutatorian and proudly served as drum major. She continued her education at Wright’s Beauty School in Fort Wayne.
On June 3, 1956, Christine married Harvey Dean Burns in the Akron Church of the Brethren. Together, they began their life’s journey with a honeymoon in the Smoky Mountains. Dean preceded her in death on October 25, 2018.
Christine’s early career began in Macy, where she styled hair before working at Chamberlain, Farmer’s Home, and Helvey’s of Peru. She later retired from Topps Manufacturing, where she was known for her dedication in customer service.
Deeply committed to her community, Christine was involved with the Literacy Coalition through the Fulton County Public Library. She sang with the Noteables and served as director of the Fulton County Chorus. She also gave her time as a Den Mother for the Cub Scouts and was a proud supporter of her children’s musical pursuits as a devoted band parent.
Her faith was central to her life. Christine was a longtime member of the Macy United Methodist Church and later the Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church, where she actively participated in the United Methodist Women and led the children’s choir.
Christine shared her love of history as a tour guide at the Stockdale Mill and found joy in attending North Miami ball games. She always enjoyed cheering on and supporting all of her grandchildren. She and Dean traveled across the United States, creating cherished memories together and with their family.
She is survived by her children Jeffrey and wife Julie Burns of Macy, Brian and wife Michelle Burns of Macy, Joyce and husband Gary Mosier of Silver Lake, and Beth and husband Ty Saunders of Van Buren; 8 Grandchildren; 14 Great Grandchildren; and brother Randy Hartman of Warsaw.
Christine was preceded in death by her parents and husband Dean.
The funeral service will be held at 1 pm, Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025 at Hartzler Funeral Home Home 305 West Rochester Street Akron, Indiana with Pastor Wayne Balmer officiating.
The interment will take place following the service in the Plainview Cemetery, Macy, Indiana next to her husband.
Visitation hours will be held from 11 am to 1 pm, Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025 at Hartzler Funeral Home, Akron, Indiana
Memorial contributions can be made to Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church or to the Fulton County Literacy Coalition at the Fulton County Public Library.
