Thomas R. Burns is an octogenarian whose rich life experiences include roles as a gardener, oil painter specializing in landscapes and religious art, and dedicated public servant. Born during the Great Depression, Thomas spent his early years in the Ohio countryside. His life took a significant turn during World War II when his father, Clarence, was drafted into the U.S. Navy, prompting a move to Pittsburgh with his mother, Mildred, and brother, David.

Following the war, the family returned to Ohio, where Thomas began studying for the Catholic priesthood. He later decided to pursue a different path, joining the U.S. Army, getting married, and enrolling in the School of Applied Social Sciences at Case-Western University in Cleveland, Ohio. Thomas dedicated his career to social work, serving in various capacities, including public welfare, VA medical centers, and Indian reservations in Nevada, Arizona, and Utah.

As an officer in the U.S. Public Health Services, Thomas became a national consultant on alcoholism and substance abuse, contributing articles to esteemed publications such as Public Health Reports, the National Journal of American Indian and Alaskan Native Mental Health, and the Indian Health Service Provider. He holds additional degrees in alcohol studies and health administration.

Thomas married Maria from the Ysleta Pueblo in El Paso, Texas. After retiring, he studied for the Roman Catholic diaconate in Washington, D.C., and was ordained in Santa Fe, New Mexico, in 2004. His final assignment was at San Ysidro Catholic Parish in Corrales, NM. Together, Thomas and Maria have served parishioners for 32 years, building a family that includes four children and six grandchildren.