Rachel “Helen” Burns

Rachel “Helen” Burns, age 96, of Asheboro, NC, passed away on Monday, Sept. 15, 2025, at Randolph Hospice House.

Helen was born on July 24, 1929, to George H. Lucas and Rachel Shuping. 

She was a woman of remarkable strength and devotion, whose life was rooted in faith, family and hard work. A faithful member of Oakhurst Baptist Church for over 70 years, Helen even taught Sunday school and beginner classes, sharing her wisdom and love for the Lord with younger generations.

She loved gardening and often used the vegetables from her garden to make her famous homemade vegetable soup. Her fried apples were unmatched, and she was truly extraordinary in the kitchen. Helen enjoyed traveling, had a sharp wit and sense of humor, and loved spending time with her family. Her devotion to her loved ones was unwavering, and she cherished every moment spent together.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 65 years, John T. Burns; her son, Tommy Burns; her sisters, Kate Bell, Naomi Nichols, Margie Royals and Ruth Reeder Wood; and her brothers, Robert Lucas and Glen Lucas.

She is survived by her daughters, Patsy Fields (Thomas) of Elgin, SC, and Carol Ramsay of Asheboro; her brothers, Hal Lucas and George “Buddy” Lucas of Star, NC; and many extended family members who will carry her memory forward.

Visitation will be held on Friday, Sept. 19, 2025, from 1-1:45 p.m. at the Glenn “Mac” Pugh Chapel, followed by a service at 2 p.m. with Dr. Rob Roberts officiating. A private burial will be held at a later date.