Toni C. Burns, loving mother and grandmother passed away at home on November 20, 2016 after a five month battle with cancer. Toni was born August 17, 1935 in Hartford, CT to Charles and Catharine Cole. At the age of 6, her family moved to Phoenix, AZ, then to Springerville when she was 11 and Flagstaff in 1951. Toni graduated from Flagstaff High in 1953.

She served as den mother for her sons' scout troops for 8 years and was a librarian for the Flagstaff Public Library for 25 years. Toni was a lifelong reader. She also enjoyed cooking, gardening, her pets, bird watching and especially spending time with her family, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and friends. In addition to those she loved, her church of 40 plus years, Flagstaff Christian Fellowship, brought her great joy and support over the years and during her illness. Her deep faith inspired her family and sustained us all during her courageous battle with cancer.

Toni is survived by her three sons, Terry (Chris), Randy (Kim) and Wayne (Kim), 13 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister, two nephews, former husband, John A. Burns and her loving companion, Bill Drye, Jr.

The family would like to thank her wonderful friends, the loving and caring staff at Vista Hospice as well as Flagstaff Christian Fellowship for their kindness and support during Toni's illness. Toni was deeply loved and will be greatly missed.

A celebration of her life will be held on December 31st , 2016 at 11am at Flagstaff Christian Fellowship, 123 South Beaver St., Flagstaff, AZ.

In lieu of flowers, Toni has requested that donations be made to any of the following charities: Vista Hospice - Sunshine Mission - Second Chance - Coconino Humane Society.