JAMES "JIM" SANFORD BURNETTE

James Sanford “Jim” Burnette, age 84, of Riceville, went home to be with his Lord early Saturday morning, November 23, 2019, surrounded by his family. Jim was born May 25, 1935 in Knoxville, to the late John and Lou Ella Morrow Burnette. He was preceded in death by his sister, Jean Carter, of Titusville, FL.

He was a resident of McMinn County since 1967 and served as project manager for several construction projects. He was founder of the Riceville Youth Football where he devoted over 30 years of his life to helping boys and girls in the community. Jim was a veteran of the US Army and a member of Solid Rock Baptist Church in Riceville.

Survivors include his loving wife of 62 years, Jo Evans Burnette of Riceville

Children, Mike and Diane Burnette of Athens, Greg and Brenda Burnette of Riceville, Mark and Carol Burnette of Athens, Cliff and Nikki Burnette of Athens, Missy Kile of Cleveland and Rick and Debbie Hope of Athens

Grandchildren, Stephanie and Norm Owens, Whitney and Jamie Lewis, Haiden Linton, Darrin Burnette, Hunter Burnette, Taylor Burnette, Summer Kile, Brenda Baker and Kaite Baker

Great- grandchildren, Braylon Burnette, Oakley Burnette, Riley Linton, McKenzie Lewis, Lillie Baker and Cashton Baker

Several nieces, nephews and many friends

Funeral services will be 7:00 pm Tuesday at Ziegler Funeral Home with Rev. Dennis Leamon officiating.

Burial will be 1:00 pm Wednesday in Riceville Cemetery with his sons and grandsons serving as pallbearers.

Honorary pallbearers will be former Riceville Youth Football players.

The family will receive friends Tuesday from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm at Ziegler Funeral Home.

If you are unable to attend the visitation or funeral service, please sign the online registry at: www.zieglerfuneralhome.com

Ziegler Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of James “Jim” Burnette.