Claiborn Winston Burnette

Claiborn Winston Burnette, 89, passed away on Wednesday, December 14, 2023 after

a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s. Claiborn was born in Wake County to the late George

Haywood and Mabel Clyde Winston Burnette. In addition to his parents, Claiborn was preceded

in death by his wife, Sylvia Burnette; sister, Vera Etheridge; brother, Haywood Burnette; and

granddaughter, Chelsea Szerelmey.

A celebration of Claiborn’s life will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, December 20th at

Bryan-Lee Funeral Chapel in Raleigh. The burial will follow at Historic Oakwood Cemetery.

Claiborn is survived by his sons, George Burnette (Susan) and Mike Burnette (Misty);

grandchildren, Brian Burnette (Monica), George Burnette, Jr. (Catie), and James Burnette; and

great-grandchildren, Weston Szerelmey and Lillian Burnette; sister-in-law, Penny Parker (Rick),

and William Hicks, whom he loved like a son.

After a long career at Westinghouse, Claiborn and Sylvia spent their retirement years traveling

the United States and many countries throughout the world. Claiborn was a lifelong member of

Trinity United Methodist Church, now Open Table UMC, and cherished the friendships made

and bonds forged there. He was a wonderful example of servanthood and still enjoyed

volunteering in his later years. Even as Claiborn’s memory faded, his love for his family was still

unmistakable during special times with his children and grandchildren.

The family would like to thank the Reminiscence Staff at Brighton Gardens of Raleigh for their

loving care of our father. We are so grateful for your care, understanding, and support during this

difficult time. Your generosity and compassion will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Open Table UMC, Transitions Lifecare, or a charity of your

choice.

Condolences may be sent to www.bryanleefuneralhome.com