John Paul Burnette

John Paul Burnette, 88, of Oak Level passed away Monday, June 27, 2016. He was preceded in death by his wife, Deniece E. Burnette of the home; son, Paul Wesley Burnette of Roanoke; parents, S.L. and Cova Burnett; a sister, Ileta Nolen, and brothers, Charlie Burnett, Bill Burnett, and Bob Burnett. Mr. Burnette retired from E. I. Dupont after 30 years of dedicated service. Much like his son and grandson, he developed a passion for automobiles and spent much of his free time buying and selling them. What he may be best known for, however, were the immaculate grounds he kept at his home. He took great pride in his handiwork and could often be seen inspecting/admiring it from a lawn chair in his driveway. Truth be told, he was never happier than when lounging in his recliner watching game shows next to his loving wife of nearly 70 years, Deniece. Mr. Burnette was a member of Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church and it was there that he accepted the gift of salvation from his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Many are left behind who will remember him for his loving nature and generous wit. His grandson, Matthew Mason Burnette, Roanoke; Daughter-in-law, Melanie Burnette, Roanoke; Sister, Alice Gourley (Frank), Henry; Sisters-in-law, Eva Burnett, Altavista and Irene Burnett, Ferrum; Nieces, Joan Prillaman and Ellen Burnett, Ferrum, Suzanne Moore, Smith Mountain Lake and Diane Trisler, Jonesville, LA; Nephews, Logan Richardson, Henry, Richard Burnett, Altavista and Steve Nolen, Vinton; Nieces-in-law Lisa Whitlock, Rocky Mount and Sheree Whitlock, Rustburg and many special grand-nieces and grand-nephews. Mr. Burnette had a loyal group of caregivers who stayed with him until the end. He also had many good neighbors including Rick and Denise Gilley who looked in on him. The family requested that food be omitted. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church, 2300 McNeill Rd., Rocky Mount, VA 24151 or to the charity of your choice. Funeral services will be conducted 11:00 AM Friday, July 1, 2016 at Conner-Bowman Funeral Home with the Rev. Liz Lazenby officiating. Interment will follow in the Burnett Family Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service on Friday beginning at 10:00 AM at Conner-Bowman Funeral Home, 62 VA Market Place Drive (Route 220 at Wirtz Road), Rocky Mount. www.connerbowman.com