Donald Lee Burnett

Donald Lee Burnett departed this life and went to be with Jesus, leaving behind cherished memories and a legacy of love. In the home he proudly built for his family, Don passed away peacefully with his loved ones by his side on June 22, 2026, at 7:22 a.m. He was born on May 21, 1965, in Elizabethtown, Kentucky.

Don graduated from Harrison High school in 1983, where he met the love of his life and soulmate, Tina. Together they shared 45 wonderful years filled with tremendous love and countless memories. They enjoyed traveling throughout the countryside and abroad, spending time at various lakes and beaches, taking motorcycle trips with friends, gathering with family, and making memories with their two daughters and grandkids. Don had such a deep appreciation for both the grand and simple blessings God placed in his life.

A hard working man with a servant’s heart, Don was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. He loved all things outdoors; including deer and turkey hunting, caring for his yard, and riding his Harley. He was a beloved brother, a devoted husband, the best girl dad, a loyal friend, and took great pride in being “Papaw” to his granddaughters. Nothing brought him greater joy than his family, and he was eagerly looking forward to welcoming another grandchild in just a few short weeks.

Don and his family’s relationship with the Lord grew tremendously over the last 6 years after he was diagnosed with leukemia.  Through the best and the hardest days, he sought the Lord and found peace in God’s mercy and promises. After entering remission following his first battle with cancer, Don publicly professed his faith and was saved and baptized. He will be remembered for his generous and caring heart, his willingness to help anyone in need, his devotion to his family, and his remarkable gift for bringing people together. He was a man of integrity, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the people he loved. His family finds comfort in knowing that his legacy lives on through the many lives he touched and the countless memories he created with family and friends. He will be deeply missed and cherished in their hearts forever.

Don is survived by his devoted wife, Tina Burnett; his daughters Lauren Smith (Dana), and Brittney Bender (Karson); his siblings Cookie Gipson (Larry), Boonie Burnett (Deb), Kimberly Strunk; and his beloved grandchildren, Z’raeya Walker, Camryn Smith, Brooklyn Smith, Lucas Smith, Khylar Mae Bender and Kohen Bender. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Bobby Burnett; his stepfather Paul Burnett; and brother-in-law, John Strunk.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Friday, June 26, 2026, at Soller-Baker Lafayette Chapel, 400 Twyckenham Blvd. Service will be 2:00 pm Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Soller-Baker Lafayette Chapel. Interment will be at Johnson Cemetery in Stockwell, Indiana.