Nell Thompson Burnett

Nell Thompson Burnett, 92, died peacefully on May 5, 2016, following a brief illness. She was a long-time resident of Dothan, Alabama.

Nell was born on October 29, 1923 in Greenville, Alabama, the youngest child of Charles and Evelyn Thompson. Nell had a full and happy childhood, spending many moments with her sister, Evelyn and lifelong best friend, Fannie Paul Burnett Sims, who later became her sister-in-law. Nell graduated from Greenville High School and married Ralph Burnett, also from Greenville. Nell and Ralph traveled for many years as members of the United States Air Force, settling in Dothan in 1966 at Ralph’s retirement with the rank of Colonel. In Dothan, Nell was an active member of First United Methodist Church and the United Methodist Women. She was honored in 2015 by the UMW and made a Lifetime Member. Nell was also active in the Dothan Country Club, and several supper, lunch, and bridge clubs. Nell loved her family, her friends, and people in general. For many years, Nell could be counted on to bring anyone who was in need one of her famous pound cakes. Her neighbors and grandchildren will always remember her baby cakes, given out at holidays. She enjoyed many trips to the beach with her “beach bunch.”

Nell is preceded in death by her husband, Ralph, her parents, her sister and brothers, Evelyn Hathcock, Charles, William, Joseph and Eugene Thompson, one grandchild, Sherrie Lynn Rogan, and several extended family members and close friends.

She is survived by her two children, Judy Rogan Boyd of Birmingham, Gene Burnett Brenda of Dothan; five grandchildren, Trey Rogan Lisa of Huntsville, Jamie Rogan Jennifer and Becky Bolden Gerald all of Nashville, Lea Haisten Josh and Laura Burnett Brooks Newell all of Dothan; five great-grandchildren, Brandon Soerensen, Taylor Kitchings, Joshua and Brooke Bolden, and Mary Burnett Haisten; numerous nieces and nephews, including Lynn Hathcock Summerford, with whom she had a special relationship.

She was an extremely generous lady and a steadfast Christian who was strong in her devotion to the Lord. Her favorite scripture was Psalm 23, and her family is comforted that Nell is dwelling in the house of the Lord forever. There will be a visitation at First United Methodist Church Dothan on May 6 from 2:00 to 3:00.  A visitation will be held in Greenville at Dunklin & Daniels Funeral Home on May 7 at 1:00, followed by graveside services, Magnolia Cemetery, at 2:00.  Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, In Christ’s Name Fund, Dothan, Alabama.