Ralph William Burns, 76, Longtime Postal Worker and Pastor, Dies

Burns, a Navy veteran, spent 30 years as a mail carrier before dedicating 18 years to ministry.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Ralph Burns, a 76-year-old resident of Gallatin, Tennessee, passed away on December 26, 2025. Burns had a long career, first serving in the U.S. Navy and then working 30 years as a mail carrier before becoming a pastor for 18 years. He was an active member of his local Methodist church and was known for his strong Christian faith and dedication to helping others.

Why it matters

Burns' life story highlights the diverse paths people can take, from military service to civil service to religious ministry. His commitment to serving his community through multiple roles over the decades is an inspiring example of a life well-lived.

The details

After his naval service, Burns worked as a mail carrier in his hometown of Shelbyville, Indiana for 30 years. He then felt called to ministry and spent 18 years as a pastor, most recently at the First United Methodist Church of Gallatin, Tennessee. Burns was known for his active involvement in the church's Stephen Ministry, which provides one-on-one Christian care to people experiencing life difficulties.

  • Burns was born on April 24, 1949 in Shelbyville, Indiana.
  • He served in the U.S. Navy, Naval Intelligence as a young man.
  • Burns worked 30 years as a mail carrier for the Post Office in Shelbyville, Indiana.
  • He was a pastor for 18 years, previously ministering at Lewis Creek Wesleyan Church in Indiana.
  • Burns passed away on December 26, 2025 at the age of 76.

The players

Ralph William Burns

A 76-year-old resident of Gallatin, Tennessee who had a long career serving in the U.S. Navy, as a mail carrier, and as a pastor.

Becky Burns

Ralph's wife, with whom he settled in Gallatin, Tennessee and found fellowship at the First United Methodist Church.

First United Methodist Church of Gallatin

The church where Ralph Burns was an active member and involved in the Stephen Ministry program.

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What’s next

A Celebration of Life Open House will be held in Shelbyville, Indiana, on Saturday, February 21. The event will be located at the Shelbyville Civic Center, in Room B from 2-4pm.

The takeaway

Ralph Burns' life exemplified the values of service, faith, and community. His diverse career path and dedication to helping others through both civil service and religious ministry left a lasting impact on those around him.