James E. Burris

On the evening of November 21st, 2012 James E. and Janet K. Burris, of Strasburg, went home to their eternal reward with Jesus. After a 27 year battle with multiple sclerosis, Jim passed away peacefully at home. Janet joined him shortly, after suffering a massive heart attack.
Jim was born on August 18th, 1936 to the late Joe Burris and Leila Snodgrass in Hollaway, Ohio. He was a graduate of New Philadelphia High School. Janet was born on October 2nd, 1937 to the late Leonard and Cecilia Divida in Canton, Ohio. She was a graduate of Strasburg-Franklin High School. They were married on September 1st, 1956 and just recently celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary. They were completely devoted to each other and were very loving parents and grandparents.
Jim was employed by Gordon Printing, The Akron Beacon Journal, and then became an Independent Truck Driver. He was a Volunteer with the Strasburg Fire Department for many years and an all-around jack of all trades. One of his favorite pastimes was watching old western movies. He never complained and courageously endured the limitations and complications of multiple sclerosis for almost three decades. Janet owned and operated Jan's Ceramics for many years. She was also employed by The Junction Restaurant as a waitress for 11 years. Jan was an avid cross-stitcher and Pittsburgh Steelers fan and a fantastic cook. She was the sole caregiver for Jim while he was fighting his battle. They both enjoyed having their family around them and they will be sadly missed.
They are survived by many loved ones: their four daughters: Chris (Harry) Wood, Kelly (Tim) Garber, Kim Harper (Stephen), and Stacey (Mickey) Vickers, their grandchildren : Eric (Erica) Matheny, Katie (Bryan) Vickers, Caleb Garber, Nick Harper, Mitchell Harper and Alex Harper, and step-grandchildren : Amber & Natasha Vickers. They had five great-grandchildren : Ethan, Elliot, Peyton, Jake, & Skylar.
Jim is also survived by a brother, Joe (Julie) Burris and two sisters, Carolyn (Dale) Haas and Susie (Dave) Boerner. He was preceded in death by a brother, Charles Burris. Janet is also survived by a sister, Judy (Jerry) Slankard. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Johnny & David Divida and a sister and brother in law, Carol (Tom) Mizer. They are both survived by a loyal, longtime friend, Dave Dayton and were preceded by a grandson, Lucas Garber.
In following with Jim and Jan's wishes, no calling hours will be observed and a private graveside service will be held at a later date. The Toland-Herzig Funeral Home and Crematory in Strasburg is handling arrangements. Those wishing to express their fondest memories of Jim and Jan may do so by visiting the on line obituaries and flowers link on the funeral homes website.

In lieu of flowers, please send any contributions to Hospice of Tuscarawas County.