Lola Burns

Lola Bell Haywood, known as Lola Burns (and nicknamed Dorothy Jean) was born on May 3, 1938. She was born to Lola Haywood and James Haywood in Scotts, Mississippi. Lola was the ninth child of twelve children.

Lola confessed her life to Christ at an early age. She became a devoted member and served on the Usher Board at Christian Love Church, under the leadership of the late Pastor B.T. Smith. She later became a member and served on the Usher Board at Greater St. John Baptist Church, led by Elmer M. Lesure.

Lola attended Crane High School in Chicago, IL and obtained her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) License, which jump started her career in the healthcare field. She worked in this field for over forty years.

During her time on earth, Lola gave birth to six children, Larry Burns, Smyrna Burns, Eva Burns, Herrsterstine Burns, Rose Burns and Victoria Burns; and adopted son, Derrius Burns.

While working, she was able to purchase her first property in 1991 (532 N. Pine). Her building was her pride and joy. She did all the maintenance, from gardening to climbing the roof to cleaning the gutters, and you bet not dare let her catch you standing in front of her house, because she definitely would call the po-po on you. Whenever someone fell on hard times, her door was always open to let you stay, but trust and believe she was gon put you to work.

Lola quoted God’s words like no other, her favorite one was “When you are disobedient to thy mother and father, your days will be shortened.” She made sure while growing up her grandkids went to church every Sunday and reminded her family daily “never be lazy”, to “ work hard in life” and to “be able to stand on your own when God calls you home.” Lola was strong, feisty, hardworking; the glue and the backbone. She was the queen of the castle.

Lola was called home on October 26, 2024. She is preceded in death by: Her mother, Lola Bell Haywood; father, James Haywood; son, Larry Burns; daughters, Smyrna Burns and Herrsterstine Burns; granddaughters, Latasha Burns and Gabrielle Burns; sisters, Alice, Matalio, Easter Mae, Jhonnie Lee and Herrsterstine; and brothers, Nick, Robert, James Jr. and Flimm.

She leaves to cherish her memory: Her daughters, Rose, Eva and Victoria; her adopted son/grandson. Derrius; sister, Barbara Tampley; her brother, Theodore Haywood; eighteen grandchildren, thirty-three great-grandchildren and fifteen great-great-grandchildren; her best friend, Rosie Snyder; and a host of loving family and friend