Hurt………Willie Leon Burnette age 81, of Hurt, died Saturday, December 8, 2018.

Born April 16, 1937 in Altavista, he was a son of the late, William "Bill" Christopher Burnette and Virginia Louise Stevens Burnette.  Leon was predeceased by his brother, Clarence "C.D." Davis Burnette, and his sister, Peggy Burnette Byrd.

He is survived by his much beloved wife, Dorothy Fitzgerald Burnette; one brother, John "Johnny" Walker Burnette; and two sisters, Nancy Burnette Blanks and Brenda Burnette Winn.

Leon retired from Dan River Mills after working 25 years in management. Prior to joining Dan River, he was associated with Burlington Industries, Riegel Textiles, and Klopman Mills. Leon attended Durham Technical Institute and UNC. He served in the National Guard for 10 years.

Leon loved to travel with his wife, Dorothy, and play golf. Dorothy was his "biggest fan." He is fondly remembered by his nieces and nephews as a humorous and fun loving uncle they could always count on.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Hurt Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 727, Hurt, VA 24563 or to the Campbell County Humane Society, P.O. Box 659, Rustburg, VA 24588.

The family is deeply grateful for the help of the caregivers who lovingly assisted Leon for the last nine months as well as Centra Hospice for their dedication to easing his final days. A private memorial service will be held for Leon at a later date.

Colbert-Moran Funeral Home, Gretna is assisting the family. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.colbertmoran.com.