John E. Burnette

Dr. John E. Burnette, age 71, of Frankfort, KY entered eternal life on Thursday, February 12, 2026. Mr. Burnette was born in Ashland, KY on December 25, 1954 to the late Frank Raymond Burnette and Effie Elizabeth Shannon Burnette.

In addition to his parents, his fiancé, Tamara Wright preceded him in death.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his siblings, Ronald Lee Burnette (Rebecca), Thomas Landon Burnette (Ann) and Jane Zimmer (Hal); nieces and nephews, Brent Burnette, Amy Bray, Ashley Kirst, Shannon Gibbs, Brad Burnette, Cassie Adams, Rachel Strodel, Josh Click and Jessica Click; a host of great nieces and nephews and a host of other dear family and friends.

Dr. Burnette took great pride in his profession and in serving his community as a dentist and owner of Burnette Family Dentistry.

Outside of his work, he had a real love for horse racing and enjoyed traveling to different tracks whenever he could. Some of his happiest trips were to San Diego and Florida — places where he could slow down, enjoy the weather, and just be. He was a proud member of the University of Kentucky SAE Fraternity, and he valued the friendships and brotherhood he found there. If there was a UK football or basketball game on, you could count on him to cheer on the Wildcats.

Above all, he was a man who was content and truly enjoyed life. Whether spending time with his beloved dogs, Oaklynne and Daisy, traveling, or simply being with family and friends, he appreciated each day as it came. His steady presence, warm spirit, and genuine enjoyment of life will be remembered always.

Funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm on Friday, February 20, 2026 in the chapel of Schoppenhorst, Underwood and Brooks Funeral Home (4895 N. Preston Hwy., Shepherdsville, KY) with burial to follow at Brookland Cemetery. Friends and family may pay their respects on Friday from 12:00 am until the time of his service at 2:00 pm at the funeral home.

The family of Dr. John E. Burnette would like to express their gratitude for all of the genuine loving care from the staff at the Lantern in Frankfort, Kentucky.

In lieu of flowers the family kindly requests memorial contributions be made to your local animal shelter in honor of John's love for animals.