Dr. Michael Alan Burnett, 65, of Lizella, Georgia, passed away peacefully at home with his loving family by his side on Saturday, August 26, 2023. Funeral services will be held at 5:00pm on Thursday, August 31, 2023, at Hart’s at the Cupola. The family will greet friends from 4:00pm-5:00pm.
Son of the late Willard Eugene Burnett and Frances Yvonne Sarvis Burnett, Dr. Burnett was born on August 31, 1957, in St. Petersburg, Florida. His early years were spent in Madeira Beach, Florida, a quaint old Florida town where he served as an acolyte at Church By the Sea. His childhood was filled with adventures, from hunting in the Suwannee River backwoods to boating in the waterways of Madeira Beach, St. Petersburg, and Tampa. He even drove his small skiff to school, a testament to his independent spirit and love for the water.
After graduating from Seminole High School, Dr. Burnett pursued his passion for science at the University of Florida, earning a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. He continued his education at Emory University School of Dentistry in Atlanta, Georgia, where he served as Vice President of his class.
Dr. Burnett owned and operated the Dental Care Center in Macon, Georgia, for 25 years. His patients fondly remember his Elvis impersonations and his knack for making them laugh, even in the dentist's chair. His strong work ethic and dedication to his profession were evident in his commitment to the American Dental Association. Dr. Burnett's love for his community was deeply ingrained, stemming from his family's history of volunteer Firefighting. He served on numerous boards and committees, including the Cherry Blossom Festival Board, the American Cancer Society, the Grand Opera House, and the Keep Macon Bibb Beautiful Committee. He was also a devoted member of Ingleside Baptist Church and served for many years on his neighborhood association board.
In his leisure time, Dr. Burnett enjoyed snow skiing and water skiing. He was an avid fan of Florida Gator Football and had a particular fondness for a good grouper sandwich. He had a keen eye for beautiful landscape design and loved construction. However, his greatest joy was his family, especially his son Clayton, who brought immense happiness into his life.
Dr. Burnett is survived by his loving wife, Donna Karen Burnett; son, Clayton Burnett; sisters-in-law, Carol Ballman of Jacksonville, Florida and Debra Whitley of Flowery Branch, Georgia , also several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Captain Charles Eugene Burnett.
Dr. Burnett's life was marked by a long, brave fight, demonstrating his courage and resilience. His legacy of laughter, community service, and faith will continue to inspire those who knew him. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of his loved ones and the community he served so passionately.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dr. Burnett’s honor to First Presbyterian Day School, 5671 Calvin Drive, Macon, GA 31210; or to Macon Fireman’s Credit Union, for Fire Safety, at 899 Oglethorpe St., Macon, GA 31201.
Please visit www.hartsmort.com to express condolences.
Hart’s at the Cupola, Hart's Mortuary and Cremation Center, 6324 Peake Rd, Macon, GA 31210 has charge of the arrangements.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Dr. Michael Alan Burnett, please visit our floral store.
First Presbyterian Day School (Library Fund)
5671 Calvin Drive, Macon GA 31210
Macon Fireman’s Credit Union (For Fire Safety)
899 Oglethorpe St, Macon GA 31201