Jack Edwin Burnett

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Jack Edwin Burnett, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, who peacefully left us after a lifetime of grace, kindness, and dedication. Born on January 23, 1928, in Huntington, West Virginia, Jack was the cherished son of Bessy and John Burnett.

Jack proudly served in the United States Army, earning the Army of Occupation Medal of Germany, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal. After his service, he went on to graduate from the University of Kentucky in 1955 with a degree in mechanical engineering.

His professional journey began at Taylor Instrument Company in Rochester, New York, where he met his beloved wife, Elaine Gardner. The couple married in 1956 and, soon after, Jack’s career took them to Atlanta, Georgia, where they made their home for the rest of their lives.

A lifelong member of the United Methodist Church, Jack was known for his warmth, generosity, and dedication to his family and community. He was passionate about photography and the art of capturing life’s precious moments. As an outdoorsman, he found joy in fly fishing, hunting grouse, and spending time in nature. Jack also enjoyed working with his hands—whether refurbishing antiques, restoring his gun collection, or building several canoes.

An avid golfer, Jack was especially proud of the two hole-in-ones he achieved during his golfing career. In addition, Jack’s mechanical skills were unmatched, and he took great pride in fixing anything that broke, from household items to the cars he worked on before technology took over. He was also a skilled pilot and loved sharing the thrill of flight with his family, often taking them on joyrides and letting them play the role of copilots.

Jack’s appreciation for the finer things in life extended to his passion for wine. He was a dedicated wine collector and, in a testament to his careful curation, he was able to sell his collection through Christie's Auction House.

Jack is survived by his daughter, Jacqueline Radford, and granddaughter, Areme Radford; his son, Steven Burnett, daughter-in-law Carmen, and grandchildren Connor and Leah; and his son, Gardner Burnett, daughter-in-law Ann Marie, and grandsons Jason and David. He will be deeply missed by his family and all who were fortunate enough to know him.

A celebration of Jack's life will be held to honor his legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering devotion to those he cherished. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.