Justin and Simone

Justin Michael Burnell, 43, formerly of Knoxville, TN and his newlywed partner, Elyse Simone Mele, 33, were suddenly and tragically taken from us on February 23, 2025. Justin was born on November 16, 1981, in Ottawa, IL, the son of Stephanie Burnell and Amy Nicholson.

After high school, Justin went on to earn his B.A. and Master of Fine Arts in Writing at the University of New Orleans. He utilized his education by inspiring countless students in his English and creative writing courses.

Justin could never stay in one place for too long. After leaving New Orleans, he went on to live in New York City, Iowa City, and Kansas City. A dedicated and determined writer, his works were published in NOLA Fugees, The Columbia Journal, Guernica, The New Guard Review, The Ram pus, Arkana Mag, and Queen Mob's Tea House.

Justin and Simone shared a love of mixology and crafting the perfect cocktail. More than just bartenders, they were chemists and craftspeople whose skills and knowledge amazed their patrons and inspired their coworkers. Their dedication to the craft got their establishments that they co-owned nominated for two James Beard Awards.

Justin and Simone were married in a breathtaking ceremony on February 15, 2025, in New Orleans, LA by Jarret Lofstead. The circumstances surrounding their passing has hit us all incredibly hard, but we find some comfort in knowing that they left this world together.

They both strongly believed in equality, inclusion, and social justice, and they centered these values in their lives and businesses.

Left behind to cherish Justin's memory are Stephanie Burnell (mother), Meghann Nicholson (sister), Doris and Dwight Nicholson (grandparents), Dennis (Mary) Burnell (uncle), Sabrina Nicholson (aunt}, Dallas (Elaine) Nicholson (uncle), and many cousins that will love and miss him dearly.

Preceding Justin in death are Amy Nicholson (birth mother), Lorena Nicholson (aunt), Mary¬Jo Burnell (aunt), Rick Burnell (Uncle), and Jean and Richard Burnell (grandparents). Receiving of friends will be held at Weaver Funeral Home in Knoxville, TN on April 12, 2025, from 1-3:00 pm with a memorial service following from 3-4:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, please memorialize Justin and Simone by donating in their name to a human or animal rights charity of your choice.