Karon Joan Burnette
Karon Joan Burnette, 77, of Heiskell passed away Thursday, July 16, 2026, at the University of Tennessee Medical Center. She was born Aug. 13, 1948, in Heiskell to Aaron Edward and Maud Ema Lee Hackney.
Karon was a devoted Christian and faithful member of Wolf Valley Baptist Church in Heiskell. Her faith was an important part of her life and was reflected in the love, kindness and compassion she showed to her family and others. Her family was at the heart of her life, and she treasured every moment spent with those she loved.
Karon enjoyed sewing and making beautiful quilts. She especially loved Christmas, and took great joy in wrapping presents for her family. Each gift was carefully and beautifully wrapped and completed with one of her handcrafted bows. This special tradition, along with the love she placed into every detail, will always be fondly remembered by her family.
As Karon’s health declined, her sister, Joyce Snyder, lovingly cared for her for many years. Joyce’s children, Judy and Jack, also helped provide Karon with care and love. Their devotion and kindness meant so much to Karon and her family.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, William “Harry” Burnette; son, Christopher Burnette; father-in-law and mother-in-law, John and Lula Burnette; sisters, Wanda Garner and husband James, and Loretta Dew and husband Boots; brothers, Bobby, Tommy, Hugh and Buck Hackney; sister-in-law, Minnie Hackney; and brothers-in-law, Eddie Bills, Bill Snyder and Roger Giles.
She is survived by her sisters Katherine Bills, Joyce Snyder and Debria Giles; brother-in-law, Larry “Spanky” Burnette; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends. Karon also held a special place in the lives of John Paul and Thomas Anthony Waggoner, who lovingly considered her their mamaw.
The family received friends from 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at Holley-Gamble Funeral Home. Friends may also call from 10-11 a.m. Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at Wolf Valley Baptist Church.
The funeral will follow, with the Rev. Toby Geren officiating. Interment will immediately follow at Wolf Valley Baptist Church Cemetery.
Holley-Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton is honored to serve the family of Karon Joan Burnette.
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