Richard Burnette

Richard L. Burnette

August 06, 1949 to September 9, 2023

Saturday, September 9th, Chattanooga and the Burnette family lost a beloved family member and local musical icon. Richard was a proud member of the local Sheet Metal Workers Union #5 for 37 years. He was also very proud to be a part of the Chattanooga music scene since he joined his first band in the late 1960's. He loved all types of music. He loved to play keyboards in local Roll-n-Roll bands and following cousins Johnny and Dorsey Burnette's Rock-a-Billy bands of the 1950's and 1960's. He began playing as

the house band at the old "Coat of Arms" on Brainerd Road. He played for a short time in a band for Usher Raymond and was good friends with various groups like Lynyrd Skynyrd, the Ramones, and the Classics Four.

Although he loved music and his work, his greatest love was for his family. He was a member of East Ridge Seventh Day Adventist Church and attended East Ridge High School graduating in 1967.

In death Richard has joined his mother and father, Jean and Marion Burnette, and his brother, Tim Burnette. He is survived by his brother David Burnette, nephew Brian (Caroline) Burnette, a sister-in-law Terri Murray, a cousin, Linda Burnette, and numerous other cousins in Chattanooga. He is also survived by special friends Jim Cunningham and Bob and Linda Connelly.

He was lovingly cared for in his final weeks by his Hospice nurse, Jenny of Hearth Hospice, and the staff of NHC of Rossville.

Every stranger he met was a friend, and every friend experienced Richard's kindness and loving heart. A memorial gathering for Richard to include family and close friends will be announced soon.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests all donations go to: East Ridge Seventh Day Adventist Church, 2105

Dabney Drive, East Ridge, TN 37412.