Donna Lee Burnette, age 86, of Spruce Pine, passed peacefully into the arms of her Savior on Friday, April 18th, 2025, at Blue Ridge Regional Hospital. A native of Mitchell County, she was a daughter of the late George and Donia Ward Buchanan. She is preceded in death as well by her loving husband, Howard Lee Burnette, as well as four brothers: Virgil, Burbage, Jack and Ted Buchanan; and two sisters, Rachel Higgins and Ruth Lambeth.
A pillar of kindness, faith, and quiet strength, she leaves behind a legacy of love, generosity, and unwavering devotion to both her family and her community. She dedicated many years of her life working in the school cafeteria, where she made sure no child ever went hungry. With her warm smile and gentle heart, she nourished more than just stomachs – she fed souls. Whether it was a warm meal or a kind word, she gave selflessly, ensuring everyone who crossed her path felt seen and loved.
Words simply cannot describe how wonderful she was. A good woman all the way around, she lived her life as a testament to the goodness of God. A proud and faithful member of Chestnut Grove Baptist Church for many years, she was never shy about her faith. She bragged on God often and openly, inspiring others with her joyful spirit and steadfast belief.
She loved deeply – her family, her neighbors, and friends. Her hands were rarely still, as she found joy working in her garden and tending to her flowers, a reflection of the beauty she brought into the world. Her heart was as wide as the sky, always open, always giving.
She is survived by her son, Greg Burnette, of Spruce Pine; her daughter, Chris Shepherd (Russell) of Burnsville; one granddaughter, Savannah Hope Shepherd (Caleb King); and one sister, Ruby McGee of Spruce Pine. She is survived as well by several nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and her church family, as well as countless others who were blessed by her life and love. She will be missed beyond measure, but her light will continue to shine in every life she touched.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, April 23rd at Chestnut Grove Baptist Church. Reverends Matt Woody, Kelly Bryant and Nick Coates will officiate. Burial will follow in the Burnette Cemetery at Little Switzerland. Pallbearers will be Russell Shepherd, Caleb King, Gerald Lyons, Gene Self, Austin Self and Mike Buchanan. The family will receive friends from 1 until 2 p.m. at the church prior to the services.
To send online condolences, please visit our website at www.yanceyfuneralservice.com.
