Judy L. Burns

Judy L. Burns, 78, of Newton, died Monday, September 1, 2025, at MercyOne Newton Medical Center. A celebration of her life will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the Wallace Family Funeral Home and Crematory in Newton. Memorials to the Park Centre Activities Fund can be left at the funeral home.

Judy, the daughter of William George and Dorothy Mary (Miller) Zook, was born June 6, 1947, in Des Moines. She grew up in Mitchellville and graduated from Southeast Polk High School. She then attended the Iowa School of Beauty. Judy was united in marriage with John Burns on June 16, 1990. Judy worked as a licensed cosmetologist for 30 years. She then worked as Park Centre as a physical therapy assistant until she retired. She was a member of the Mitchellville Christian Church. Judy enjoyed crocheting, knitting, sewing—specializing in Barbie clothes, making earrings, jewelry, and crafting. She also enjoyed having dogs, playing BINGO, thrifting and collecting, eating at Taco John’s and Pizza Ranch.

Judy is survived by her husband, John Burns of Newton; her children: William “Butch” (Kristi) Helm of Des Moines, Matt (Carol) Helm of Alabama, and Alesa (Jason) Pierce of Mingo; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and her siblings, William “Buddy” Zook, Jr. and Laural “Lolly” Griswold. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Mary Beth “Betsy” Criswell.