William Dale Burns, 71, of Benton, Kentucky, passed away on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at Baptist Health Paducah.
William was born on January 8, 1954, to the late William Frank and Alma Louise Sweatt Burns. For over three decades, William was the heartbeat of local radio, sharing his passion for music as a DJ at WKYQ, WCBL, and WKYX. He was an avid reader with a fondness for the suspenseful tales of Stephen King. William was also an exceptional guitar player, his fingers dancing along the strings as effortlessly as his laughter spilled into the rooms where friends and family gathered. William’s love for animals grew strong over the years. He cherished all creatures, big and small, caring for them with tenderness and understanding. As someone who adored the outdoors, fishing was another of his serene pleasures. Whether it was the quiet hush of dawn or the golden glow of sunset, William found solace by the water's edge.
William is survived by his loving companion of 22 years, Nancy Singleton of Benton, Kentucky; a daughter, Amanda Burns of Louisville, Kentucky; three sons, William Michael (Crystal) Burns of Ledbetter, Kentucky, Jared Burns of Owensboro, Kentucky, and Eli Burns of Calvert City, Kentucky; six grandchildren, Jason Burns, Justin Burns, Mason Burns, Irelynn Burns, Evan Burns, and Isabella Burns; two great grandchildren, Hazel Burns and Alva Burns; a sister, Barbara Wurth of Paducah; several nieces and nephews; and his loving dog, Rowdy.
He was preceded in death by a sister, Gloria Mayo, and his parents.
A funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, November 21, 2025, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah with Bro. Kenneth Puckett officiating. Burial will follow at Maplelawn Park Cemetery.
Visitation will be held from 12:00 PM until the service hour of 2:00 PM on Friday, November 21, 2025, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah.
In lieu of flowers, Expressions of Sympathy may be made in the form of contributions to McCracken County Humane Society, 4000 Coleman Rd, Paducah, KY 42001.
Share a memory or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com.
