Kevin Paul Burns

Kevin Paul Burns, age 67 of New Hope, Ohio passed away Tuesday, June 17, 2025 at the Anderson Mercy Hospital in Anderson Township, Ohio. He was born September 17, 1957 in Cincinnati, Ohio the son of the late Paul and Lela Yvonne (Murrell) Burns. Kevin graduated from Western Brown High School in 1976. His love for horses led him to Donohoo Stables in Georgetown, Ohio, where he embraced his role as a groom and assistant trainer. In 1977, he took a bold step by moving to Bakersfield, California, to work for Joe O’Brien Harness Racing Stables. However, his heart found its way back to Brown County, where he devoted five more years to Donohoo Stables, nurturing the bonds he created with both horses and friends. In 1984, Kevin took a step towards personal growth by enrolling in the University of Cincinnati . During this time, he also dedicated himself to community service, becoming actively involved with the Brown County Senior Fair Board, the Brown County Charity Horse Show and the New Harmony Masonic Lodge F&AM #435. His commitment to his community was a reflection of his warm spirit and generous heart. After years of hard work and dedication, Kevin transitioned to driving an 18-wheeler for Swift Transportation Company, a career he enjoyed until his retirement. Following his retirement, Kevin devoted himself to his family, his love for reading and collecting books and his love for horses. Fishing became another cherished pastime, allowing him moments of peace and reflection. Kevin's final outing was a memorable moment at the Brown County Charity Horse Show on June 14, 2025. With joy in his heart, he announced, “It’s Horse Show Time,” one last time, creating lasting memories with those he loved. Witnessing his great nieces, Demi and Zoey, participate in the stick horse class ignited a sense of pride and joy that his family will forever treasure. In true testament to his character, Kevin was an organ donor, sharing the gift of life with others in need, allowing someone else the ability to walk when he could not. This profound act speaks volumes of a selfless, caring individual whose legacy will continue to inspire and bring comfort to all who were fortunate to know him. Kevin’s spirit will forever live in the hearts of family and friends, a shining example of kindness and devotion.

In addition to his parents, Kevin was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents – Delbert and Jeanne (Hensley) Burns, maternal grandparents – Lloyd and Viloa (Taylor) Murrell, maternal uncles – James Cornette and wife Jacquline and Carl Murrell, paternal uncles – Larry Edward Burns, Robert Charles Burns and Earl Burns and three cousins – Mark Allan Daniels, Sharon Davis and Greg Burns.

Mr. Burns is survived by one sister – Karen D. Gould of Cincinnati, Ohio; one brother – Timothy Ryan Burns of Cincinnati, Ohio; two nephews – Jeremy Ryan Gould and Andrew Paul Gould and wife Kiki both of Cincinnati, Ohio; two great nieces – Demi Grace Gould and Zoey Lynn Gould and many aunts, uncles, cousins and family friend. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Jack Burns family for the love and care they provided for Kevin throughout his life.

Celebration of Life services will be held at 2:00 P.M. Monday, July 7, 2025 at the Cahall Funeral Home in Mt.Orab, Ohio. Kurtis Hopper will officiate. Visitation will be from 12:00 P.M. – 2:00 P.M. at the funeral home.