Fishkill, NY - Dr. Timothy J. Burns, PhD, a beloved resident of Fishkill since 1988, passed away unexpectedly and peacefully at his home on July 14, 2025.

Born on February 4, 1960, in Elmira, NY, Tim was the son of Dr. James D. and Alberta (Knolls) Burns.

Tim was a lifelong learner and accomplished academic, having earned his bachelor's degree from Florida Atlantic University, a master's degree from Iona University, and a Doctorate in Information Systems and Technology from the New Jersey Institute of Technology. He served as a Professor and Convener of the Information Technology and Management Department at Ramapo College of New Jersey, where he was deeply respected by students and colleagues alike.

On March 18, 1984, he married the love of his life, Patricia (Lyman), in Sparkill, NY. Together, Tim and Patti built a life centered on love, family, and community.

Tim was actively involved in the Fishkill community, coaching both Fishkill Little League and St. Mary's CYO basketball during his children's youth. He was well respected by coaches, players, and families for his dedication, leadership, and kindness. He often liked to say that just about every kid in Fishkill had spent time in their backyard pool-a reflection of the welcoming, joyful home he and Patti created for their family, friends, and neighbors.

In recent years, Tim enjoyed golfing with his upstate race buddies and was a proud member of the local Beekman Golf Club. Though he loved to travel with family to Florida and North Carolina, Fishkill remained Tim and Patti's true home, where they continued to live surrounded by family and lifelong friends.

He had many other hobbies, including a passion for music and playing the bass guitar in local bands, as well as a love for boating on the Hudson River, biking, and taking long daily walks.

Tim is survived by his devoted wife, Patti, and their three children: Timothy "T.J." Burns II and his wife Sara, Alyson Barus and her husband Daniel, and Andrew Burns and his wife Jessica. He was a proud grandfather to Hadley, Connor, Nathan, James, and Samuel. He loved being a Poppy.

Tim is also survived by his mother, Alberta Burns; his brothers, Michael Burns (Karen) and Matthew Burns (Deanna); his mother-in-law, Eileen Lyman; sisters-in-law, Theresa Lyman and Jacquelyn (Jeff) Guion; brothers-in-law, John (Alice) Lyman and Thomas (Katie) Lyman; as well as many loving nieces, nephews, and their families.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, July 20, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at McHoul Funeral Home of Fishkill, Inc., 1089 Main Street, Fishkill, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, July 21, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Mary, Mother of the Church, 106 Jackson Street, Fishkill, NY. Interment will follow at Fishkill Rural Cemetery.