Birth date: Oct 11, 1925 Death date: Jul 10, 2020
Frances "Doll" Donnelly Burnette, 94, passed away on July 10, 2020 at her home surrounded by family. Fondly known as Doll, a nickname given to her at birth by her sister. Mrs. Burnette was preceded in death by her husband of 62 ye Read Obituary
I sent this letter to my Grandmother not long ago. The world is less bright without her.
Dear Grandmother,
A lot of kids remember summers at the lake or the pool, but my favorite memories are exploring your bookshelves and curling up on the couch with a great novel. I hope you know what a profound impact those summer afternoons had one me. It triggered a lifetime love of reading, a lifelong love of story that shaped my career in journalism and at NASA. I think back often to that fall about thirty-odd years ago when you helped me work through a college correspondence course – reading The Great Gatsby and The Sun Also Rises together. I would not have graduated college without your help that fall, but it was far more than that. I will cherish that time forever.
You’ve always been my Steel Magnolia. Our family has more than its share of hardship, but through it all you stood strong with exceptional grace and fortitude. The love you shared with Granddad is the most beautiful story I know. An epic love. You cared for him in hard times. You cared for all of us. What a beautiful, strong family you made! I hope you are proud. You should be. As I face challenges in life, I want you to know that it is you who guides me. You are the one who explained God to me in a relatable way when Sunday morning hellfire-and-brimstone sermons in Clifton and Alexander City gave me nightmares. You described God as a kind, humorous being and to this day that is my definition. Whether it’s a health crisis or a question of what is the right thing to do, I think first what would Frances Burnette do? And then I know the right thing.
I wish I could be there to tell you myself and kiss your forehead. Kristen and I think of you always. We love you. Your family loves you. Don’t worry about us. You made us strong.
All the love in the world,
Phil (with Kristen and Hubble and Billy the dogs)
Mrs. Frances was a wonderful woman. So thankful to have known her with her forever cheerful outlook. Love to the family.
