Gail Melvin "Jimmy" Burrows

In loving memory of Gail Melvin “Jimmy” Burrows (September 1, 1937 - March 15, 2024), whose journey on this earth concluded as peacefully as the life he led, surrounded by the love of his family. Born to Lewis Lowder Burrows and Myrle Snyder Burrows, Gail was the youngest of ten siblings, a testament to the large, loving family that shaped his character and life. Gail's story is one of enduring love, having married his high school sweetheart, Shirley Anne Eakin, on October 17, 1957. Together, they welcomed six children into the world: Jeffrey, Janet, Michael, David, Anne, and Catherine. Though their paths later diverged, they left an impressive legacy. A friend to all who ever had the privilege of meeting him, Gail's smile was a beacon of joy and kindness. He had the rare gift of making every person he met feel valued and important, a trait that endeared him to countless hearts throughout his lifetime. He served honorably in the United States Army exemplifying his dedication to others, a proud veteran who carried the virtues of discipline and honor into all aspects of his life. One of Gail’s favorite days of the year was Veteran’s Day. The day would start with a special breakfast with his grandkids at the middle school with fellow Veteran’s. He would then head out to take advantage of all the perks he had earned while serving our country. Gail graduated from East High School. He continued his education at the University of Utah earning his degree in business. His education laid the groundwork for a successful, 37-year career, with Blue Cross Blue Shield. Gail's faith was the cornerstone of his existence, guiding him in service and compassion towards others. He was a man who acted on his beliefs, ever ready to lend a helping hand or offer a prayer. His spirit of generosity and unwavering faith touched the lives of many, leaving a legacy of love and kindness that will endure.He reminded all of his children of the following: In happy moments praise God, In difficult moments seek God, In quiet moments worship God, In painful moments trust God, and in every moment thank God. An avid scratch golfer, Gail's ability to hit the ball for distance was legendary. Even until the very end, he continued to impress and inspire with his skill. He would step up to the ball, give his traditional one waggle, two waggle, and then proceed to drive the ball 245 yards; often outdriving competitors 20 years younger. He would be sure to remind them of his age as he walked past their ball to find his further down the fairway, by saying “not bad for an 86-year-old!”. His playful competitiveness and joy in the game were a source of happiness not just for him but for everyone who had the pleasure of joining him on the course. Gail’s pride and joy were his children. The times he cherished most were the moments with his family camping, playing sports, watching dance recitals, attending graduations, having a picnic, dancing at weddings and hosting backyard activities. Gail loved baseball, tennis, and basketball. He played all of them as well as coached. It was not uncommon to walk down the street, run into an acquaintance, and then as they walked off hear Gail say “You know…we beat them in the championship”. We’ll always remember, and will be forever grateful, for the time he dedicated to helping his kids succeed in sports and in life. Gail was preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Janet, and his siblingsVera Kocherhans, Lucille Smith, DonBurrows, Grant Burrows, Duane Burrows, Bevis Oviatt, and Wesley Burrows. Finally, he was preceded in death by his former wife Shirley Burrows who he continued to loveuntil the day that he died. Gail's legacy is carried forward by his children Jeffrey Gail (Jill), Michael James (Janet Leigh), David Kenneth (Melissa), Anne Elizabeth, and Catherine Jan (Steve); his brother Reid Burrows; his sister Joyce Miller; his 13 grandchildren; Thomas, Adam (Chloe), Rachel, Jonathan, Lauren, Ethan, Zachary, Madeline, Isabelle, Andrew, Michael, Abigail, and Amelia and his 2 great-grandchildren; Miles and Marcus. Gail's parting words, "I need to go home," reflect a life lived with purpose and love, a journey completed with the peace of knowing he was cherished. His memory will live on in the hearts of those he touched, a guiding light of kindness, faith, and unconditional love. We invite all who knew Gail to celebrate his remarkable life and the countless ways he enriched ours. His was a life well-lived, and though he will be profoundly missed, we take comfort in knowing that his tradition of love, service, and faith will continue to inspire us all. A Memorial Service to honor Gail will be held on Tuesday, March 26, 2024 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints chapel located at 2482 N 3130 W, Lehi, UT 84043. There will be a viewing from 10:00 AM to 11:45 AM followed by the service at 12:00 PM. Gail will be laid to rest at the Veterans Cemetery at Camp Williams where he will receive military honors. May he rest in peace, and may his memory be a blessing to us all.