Martha Lean West Burns

Martha Lean West Burns, age 82, of Selmer, TN, gracefully departed this world at her home on October 25, 2025. She was born on April 23, 1943, in Florence, AL, the daughter of the late Herman Ross and Mildred Willodean Scott West.

On September 2, 1960, Martha united in marriage to Alfred Ray Burns, embarking on a journey together that would not only encompass their shared dreams but also weave a rich tapestry of family. Her heart was a nurturing garden, much like her cherished flowers, which brought her immense joy and reflected her vibrant spirit.

Martha found happiness in the simple pleasures of life. She delighted in long conversations over the phone, where laughter and love flowed freely. But nothing brought her more joy than the moments spent with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They were the sunflowers in her garden, brightening her days and filling her heart with pride.

As we remember Martha, let us celebrate a life filled with warmth, love, and the beauty of family connections.

She is survived by her husband, Alfred Ray Burns of Selmer, TN; sons, Roger Ray Burns of Selmer, TN, and Rickey Burns of GA; daughter, Melinda Franks (Kenneth "Moe") of Savannah, TN; brothers, Johnny West (Ava) of Florence, AL, and Donnie West (Lora) of Iron City, TN; sisters, Barbara Burns of Florence, AL, and Betty Givens of Iron City, TN; grandchildren, Jonathan Daniel (Tiffany), Jake Daniel (Tiffany), Joni Daniel, Bailey Franks, Nick Burns, Jamie Burns (Ciera), Tyler Burns, Alana Cooper, Susan Robbins (Luke), and Emily Harville (Randy); and great grandchildren, Hunter, Layla, Jayden, Wyatt, Khloe, Konnor, Bentley, Kinzley, Kyleigh, Nate, Billie Kate, Kelsey, Asher, Kaiden, Alvee, Hunter Burns, Jacob, Journey, Xavier, Markell, Makhya, Carson, Hannah, Xander, and Kimber.

In addition to her parents, Martha was preceded in death by her daughter, Debra Lynn Burns; grandchildren, Joshua Daniel and Bradley Burns; and sisters, Frances Lawson and Imogene Nard.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at 11:00 am until 1:00 pm service time at Shackelford Funeral Directors in Collinwood, TN.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at 1:00 pm at Shackelford Funeral Directors in Collinwood, TN with David Highland officiating. Burial will follow in Mt. Hope Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Jake Daniel, Cayden Mullens, Connor Daniel, Jayden Daniel, Wyatt Smith, and Lucas Robbins.