Larry Ewing Burnett

Larry E. Burnett, 82, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, April 12, 2026. He was born on March 12, 1944, in Fulton, Missouri, to William S. “Bud” and Louise (Harrison) Burnett.

Larry was raised in Columbia, where he built a life rooted in family, friendship, and community. He graduated from Hickman High School in 1962, where he left a lasting mark as both a student and an athlete. Larry was the high school quarterback and a proud member of the 1962 Hickman state championship basketball team, a team later inducted into the Hickman Legacy Athletic Hall of Fame. In track, Larry set the Hickman High School record, jumping 21 feet 8 inches in the long jump during his senior year.

Larry carried his love of sports throughout his life. He was a member of the D Sport slow pitch softball team for several years. This team qualified to play in the national tournament in Parma, OH in 1982. Later he traveled throughout the state of Missouri officiating high school football for many years. He was a member of the “Three Dollar Golf Club”, where laughter and friendship were just as important as the game itself. Larry actively supported his children and grandchildren by cheering and encouraging them in any activity they chose from dance recitals to track, volleyball, football, soccer, gymnastics, softball and baseball.

Larry married Paula Hundley on March 11, 1967, and together they had two children, Michael and Stacy. Though their paths eventually separated and they divorced, they remained united in their love and support for their children. He later married Barbara Hitt on July 7, 1975, in Columbia, Missouri, and together they built a warm and loving home, raising two daughters, Whitney and Brie.

Larry worked for many years as a meat cutter and was a dedicated member of Local 576 of the U.F.C.W. Meat Cutters Union. He took pride in his work, but nothing meant more to him than his family.

His greatest joy in life was being “PaPa.” He treasured every moment spent with his grandchildren—driving them to and from school, preparing their lunches, and making them feel loved in the quiet, everyday ways that mattered most. Those moments will forever live on in their hearts.

Larry is survived by his wife, Barb Burnett, of the home; his children, Michael Burnett (Laurie) of Mound, Minnesota; Stacy Brizendine (Rich) of Trophy Club, Texas; Whitney Jackman (Julian) of Columbia, Missouri; and Brie Burnett (Eric) of Columbia, Missouri. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren, Zack, Seth, Addisen, Brenner, Cami, Cordell, CJ; his twin great-granddaughters; his sister, Sandy Beair of MO and TX; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bud and Louise Burnett, and his brother-in-law, Errol Dean Beair.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Larry’s honor may be made to an organization of the donor’s choice.

A celebration of Larry’s life will be held on Sunday, June 14, 2026, 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Moss House, 1905 Hillcrest Dr., Columbia, MO 65201. Arrangements are under the care of Memorial Funeral Home.