George Burkett Obituary

Burkett George Neal Burkett Sr., 86, of Rural Retreat (Groseclose community) died Thursday, July 22, 2010 in Johnson City Medical Center, Johnson City, Tenn. He was born on March 6, 1924 in Groseclose, the son of the late Oscar J. and Ella Meredith Burkett. He was a World War II veteran of the Army, 41st Armored Infantry Regiment 2nd Armored Division, having served in England, France, Belgium and Germany during the war. He was wounded in the Battle of the Bulge and received The Purple Heart. He was a devoted lifetime member of Fulton United Methodist Church. He was a farmer, truck driver, member of the American Legion, VFW and DAV. He enjoyed talking about his experience driving the truck and about the Army. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, O.J. "Jay" Burkett, and brother-in-law, James L. Lambert. Survivors include his wife of 65 years, Ethel Maxey Burkett; two sons, George N. Burkett Jr. and wife, Mona, and Philip D. Burkett and special friend, Jennifer Mitchell, all of Rural Retreat; four grandchildren, Deanne Bohnam and husband, Victor, Jennifer Burkett, Logan Burkett, and Hannah Burkett; two great-grandchildren, Matthew Hamm and Madylin Bonham; a brother, Sam Burkett and wife, Helen; a sister, Katherine B. Lambert, all of Marion; a sister-in-law, Linda K. Burkett of Rural Retreat; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services were conducted at 3 p.m. Sunday, July 25, at Fulton United Methodist Church with the Rev. Ruth Anne Henley officiating. Interment followed in Kimberlin Cemetery with military rites being conducted by Marion V.F.W. Post # 4667. The family received friends from 2 p.m. until service time at the church or they may call at the home at any time. Flowers were accepted or donations may be made to Fulton United Methodist Church, 209 Larch Street Marion, VA 24354 Lindsey Funeral Home, Rural Retreat, was in charge of arrangements.