Durwood Augustus Burnett

Durwood Augustus Burnett, a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather was a tobacco farmer known for his hard work and deep pride in each year's crop, passed away on May 15, 2025, in Durham, NC. Born on May 28, 1927, in Oxford, NC, Durwood lived a life marked by commitment, family values, and an enduring love for the land he cultivated.

A graduate of Oxford High School, Durwood served his country honorably in the occupation of Japan at the end of WWII. Upon returning to civilian life, he embraced the life of a farmer, where he built a reputation for producing the finest tobacco on the warehouse floor. His devotion to farming was paralleled only by his love of family, as he was an excellent role model for his children and grandchildren.

Durwood cherished the moments spent with his family, often creating beautiful memories through simple, yet meaningful activities. He loved fishing with his sons, teaching them the joys of the sport, and spending afternoons hitting fly balls to them in the pasture. He found satisfaction in cutting wood with his chainsaw and diligently watching over his crops to ensure they thrived.

He was married for 73 years to his loving wife, Mary Candace Sherman Burnett, who stood by his side throughout the decades. Together, they nurtured a family that included their sons: Garland Burnette and wife, Roberta Stike; Neil Burnette and wife, Dana. Their grandsons, Alex Burnette and wife, Selena; Nicholas Burnette and significant other, Ashley Rhoton will also carry on Durwood’s legacy.

In addition to his immediate family, Durwood is survived by his sister, Daphine Lansinger, and a wide circle of extended family and friends whose lives he touched in numerous ways.

Durwood was preceded in death by his father, Zachariah "Zack" Fielding Burnett, his mother, Jeanette "Nettie" Augusta Brummitt Burnett, and five brothers: Zack Burnette Jr, Robert (Bob) Burnette, Wesley Burnette, Lionel Burnette, and Thurman Burnette.

A graveside service will be held on May 17, 2025, at Providence Baptist Church Cemetery, located on Shock Overton Road, Oxford, NC 27565. The service will commence at 3:00 PM and is officiated by Rev. William Wheeler, with a reception in the fellowship hall of the Church located at 4603 Old NC 75, Oxford to follow at 4:00 PM.

The Burnett family appreciates all acts of kindness and has asked in lieu of flowers to provide donations in Durwood's name to support recovery efforts in Western NC at: https://cfwnc.org/initiatives/hurricane-helene-relief-and-recovery-effort

Durwood leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and enduring values that continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of his family and friends.

The Burnett family is being cared for with compassion by Gentry-Newell & Vaughan Funeral Home of 503 College Street, Oxford, NC 27565. Online memorials may be made at: www.gnvfuneralhome.com