Connie Schmerler Burnett

Connie Schmerler Burnett, 80, of Dallas, Texas passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her family. Born in 1945 in Sherburn, Minnesota she "got to Texas as quickly as she could" and moved to Houston, Texas at age two. She attended school in Pasadena, Texas and spent her young adulthood in Houston. In 1974, Connie married Tom Burnett. They moved to the Dallas area in the early 80s.

Connie faced a long battle with lung cancer with remarkable resilience. Although she was private about her journey, those closest to her witnessed her courage and determination over years of treatment. She always fought hard and on her own terms.

Connie lived a full life defined by family, friendships, and adventure. She was an avid and accomplished bridge player, achieving the distinguished status of Silver Life Master. Through bridge, she formed many cherished friendships that enriched her life for decades.

Her passion for travel was equally defining. Connie explored the world- journeying to Europe, Africa, the Far East, and exploring destinations across both North and South America. She was a “two-million-miler” with her preferred airline and held platinum status on multiple cruise lines, a reflection of her deep love for seeing the world- often alongside the dear friends who shared her spirit of adventure. She also had a great affection for Broadway musicals, rarely missing the opportunity to enjoy a show.

Her professional life showcased her remarkable talent for organization and communication. As a Certified Meeting Planner, Connie spent her career coordinating corporate travel, meetings, and events.

For many years, Connie volunteered for the Institutional Review Board at the former Mary Crowley Medical Research Center, contributing to the advancement of cancer research. She also volunteered with an equine therapy program, helping children with disabilities learn to ride horses- a role that combined her love of horses and children.

Above all, Connie cherished her family. Her grandson, Austin, was the joy of her life, and she took great pride in watching him grow and play baseball.

Connie is survived by her daughter, Karen Burnett, her grandson Austin Burnett, her brother Robert Schmerler and his partner Bill Bulcher. She is also survived by her extended family members, Tom Burnett, Jr. and family, Amy Burnett Reyna and family, and David Burnett and family as well as many cherished friends.

Connie was preceded in death by her husband, Tom Burnett and her parents Robert Metke Schmerler and Muriel Schmerler.

Memorial services will be held at Sparkman Funeral Home 1029 S. Greenville Ave, Richardson, Texas 75081 on Friday, April 17, 2026 at 2:00 pm. The service will be live streamed at https://youtube.com/live/wN1WxYoIcSs?feature=share

The family would like to acknowledge Dr. Minal Barve, the staff at Texas Oncology, Dr. John Nemunaitis, and the staff at the former Mary Crowley Medical Research Center for their extraordinary care.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider a donation to the Alliance for Cancer Gene Therapy https://acgtfoundation.org/donate/.