Forrest N. Burnett's Obituary
FORREST NALL BURNETT, 94, died peacefully on Thursday, January 3 at St. Francis Hospital. He was born in Charleston, MS as the youngest of 10 children born to Molly and Elbert Burnett. An accomplished athlete in high school, he played one year of football at Ole Miss before returning to work just after the Great Depression. During World War II, he served as a bombardier in the 447the Bomb group. During his 10th mission, his plane was shot down over Berlin, Germany. He was captured by the German army and sent to Stalag Luft III, home of the famous Great Escape which had occurred a few months earlier. His contagious optimism and faith in God never wavered as he relied on American Red Cross packages for survival. After over a year in the prison camp he was overjoyed to see General Patton and his army come into camp to free the American prisoners. He began his career in sales shortly after returning home where he ultimately founded Burnett Freeman Mailing Equipment, a small business made by making 20 face to face cold call a day. No matter how tired he was he never turned down a request to play catch or be the neighborhood quarterback if needed. His pleasant demeanor, impeccable character, and warm spirit were traits known by all who came in contact with him. A wonderful attribute was his desire to visit homebound members of Lindenwood Christian Church, were he was a Life Elder. While unable to attend church over the last few years he was a constant source of inspiration for those who came to see. him. A lasting example of being a devoted husband and loving father, he is survived by his wife of 50 years, Renna, his son Jim, daughter-in-law Dee and grandchildren James, Gracey, Scott, and Drew. His grandchildren were a great source of pride and pleasure to him as he desired to see as many activities as possible. Visitation will be held at Memorial Park on Sunday, January 6 from 12:30-3 p.m. A service will follow afterwards. The family asks that in lieu of flowers memorials may be sent to the American Red Cross, Streets Ministries, or the charity of the donor’s choice. Memorial Park Funeral Home, “Behind the stone wall”, 901-767-8930. Condolences may be offered at www.MemorialParkOnline.com”.
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