Released by Obert Funeral Home …
Clarence Edward Bill Burnett, age 90 of Chipley, Florida, passed from this life on May 5, 2020 at his residence surrounded by his loving family.
Bill was born on April 12, 1930 in Geneva County, Alabama to Sanders and Lillie Parker Burnett. He was raised in Chipley and took pride in the family land he grew up on. Bill was a 1959 Graduate of Georgia Tech, achieving a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He generously served in the United States Navy during the Korean War, Vietnam War, and Cuban Missile Crisis; as the result of his loyalty and perseverance, Bill attained the rank of Chief Petty Officer before his retirement in October of 1974. After retirement, Bill returned to his family homestead, which held a special place in his heart, and built a home of his own that he lived in the remainder of his days.
Bill served on numerous agricultural boards and commissions during the 70’s and 80’s in Washington County. He was a member of both the Masonic Lodge and Holmes Creek Baptist Church in Chipley, Florida.
Of all Bill’s achievements and accolades, he was first and foremost, a farmer. He whole-heartedly believed that his Heavenly Father had entrusted the caretaking of the land to him and this was a responsibility he didn’t take lightly all of his earthly days. He lived and breathed for his cows and land.
Bill was known to be generous with his resources, time, and knowledge. He was able to always see the best in people. His wonderful stories and dry sense of humor will be sorely missed.
He was preceded in death by his parents; Sanders and Lillie Burnett; sisters: Evelyn Tauvell and Edna Redd.
He is survived by his loving wife of almost 23 years, Vickie Burnett of Chipley, Florida; brother: David Burnett of Chipley, Florida; sister: Peggy Sylvester (Butch) of Ingalls, Indiana; two sons: Frosty Henneberger (Merry) of Enterprise, Alabama, Adam Owens of Chipley, Florida; two daughters: Cathy Gossett (Ricky) of Lindale, Georgia, Debbie Lindley Papizaw of Hawnsville, Georgia; grandchildren: Brittney and Gabriel Henneberger; other grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
Memorialization will be by cremation with Obert Funeral Home of Chipley, Florida in charge of arrangements.