Crystal Annette (Bedgood) Burkett

Crystal Annette Burkett, a longtime resident of Slocomb, Alabama, gently passed away on July 21, 2023, just three days shy of her 71st birthday. Born in Thomaston, Georgia, on July 24, 1952, Crystal had a reputation for exuding warmth, gentleness, and love, traits that heavily endeared her to all she met.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 47 years, Carlton Earl Burkett, her parents Robert Millard and Dona Mae Bedgood, her brother Robert Adolf Bedgood, and brother-in-law Jimmy Tucker. Crystal also now joins her special friends, Kathy Boren (Leslie) and Jimbo Hembree in heaven.

Crystal is survived by her doting children, Rodney Lynn Reese (Andrea Boone), Karen Denise Burkett (Jamie Floyd), Kelly Sabrina Boren (William), Jeanne-ka Hembree (Greg), and Jessica. She was a highly cherished grandmother to Shana Marie Knight, Carlton Earl Burkett (Brittany), William Leslie Boren, Jr. (Kaylee), Chasity Dona Burkett (Austin Walls), Emily Sabrina Lynn Boren (Jeremy Whitehead), and a great-grandmother to Blakely Wiggins, Adalyn Jane Boren, Alexus Tucker, Ryker Walls, Ava Klaire Knight, Hensleigh Kate Armstrong, Phoebe Burkett, Lucy Walls, Christopher and Alyssa, Diana, Addison Garrison, and many other grandbabies. Her surviving siblings, Levi Gordon Bedgood (Carolyn) and Sheryl Ann Bedgood Tucker, will remember her as a loving sister. She was also a beloved aunt to many nieces and nephews who held her dear to their hearts.

Mrs. Burkett attended Jurden High School and later retired from her long-standing career with Pepperill. Despite the demands of her professional life, Crystal was deeply committed to fostering a warm and loving environment within her community. Her nurturing spirit had an indelible positive impact on those around her.

Guests frequently enjoyed her enthusiastic cheer during Alabama football games, reminiscing about her fondness for the vibrant sounds of Elvis Presley, and engaging with her about their favorite moments from popular TV shows like The Voice and American Idol. It was common knowledge among her dear ones that Crystal had a special fondness for Pepsi and honey buns, elements of life's simple pleasures that so embodied her.

Being a peacekeeper at heart, it was no surprise that her faith drew her to the community of Wiregrass Church. There, she was an active and contributing member. Always focusing on the positive in every situation, she continuously demonstrated the tangible ways compassion and kindness could make a difference in the world.

In reflecting upon Crystal's life, it becomes clear that she was a woman of deep love and commitment. She was devoted to her family and friends, cherishing every opportunity to share in their triumphs and sorrows. Her gentle and thoughtful character was a beacon, radiating love and empathy throughout her community.

Her passing leaves a significant gap, not just within her immediate family, but throughout her community where her affectionate nature and lively spirit touched the lives of many. Her influence has forever left a mark on the hearts of those who knew her, ensuring that the legacy of Crystal Annette Burkett continues to live on.

A celebration of Crystal's life will be held on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, at Sunset Memorial Park Chapel at 11:00am. Crystal will be laid to rest next to her husband in Piney Grove Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will be receiving friends an hour prior to the service.