Graveside Service for Horace Roy Burnett will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Brownfield Cemetery. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 8:30 am to 10:30 am at Brownfield Funeral Home. An additional Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Hillside Christian Church, 1800 23rd Street, Canyon, TX 79015. 

Horace Roy Burnett took his final flight home at the age of 79, surrounded by the love of his family, answering the call of his ultimate Captain. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and man of deep faith, Horace lived his life with steady hands on the controls, guided by purpose, humility, and trust in God's plan.

Born to Virginia and James Burnett of Brownfield, TX, Horace grew up with a heart set on the skies. That calling led him to earn a degree in mechanical engineering from Texas Tech University and to become both a skilled pilot and a licensed aircraft mechanic- someone who not only flew the aircraft but understood every rivet and engine that carried him forward. His career reflected a lifetime of passion for aviation, serving as a pilot for Southwest Airlines in Dallas, TX, Copa Airlines in Panama, and Eastern Airlines in Miami, FL. He also flew privately for T. Boone Pickens out of Amarillo, TX, a role that spoke to his precision, professionalism, and trusted character.

Horace approached flying the same way he approached life: with calm confidence, careful preparation, and a deep respect for the journey. Whether navigating through clear skies or unexpected turbulence, he trusted his instruments, his training, and above all, his faith. He believed that God, the ultimate air traffic controller, was always guiding his path.

Above all his accomplishments, Horace's greatest joy was his family- his true home base. He was the loving husband of Roxanne, his lifelong co-pilot, whose love and partnership sustained him through every season. He was a proud father to his three children: Robby Burnett and his wife Miquela of Combine, TX; Tracy Smothermon and her husband Mark of Amarillo TX: and Jade Sieradzki and her husband Jeff of Gig Harbor, WA. His legacy continues through his eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, each of whom he loved deeply and guided with quiet strength and wisdom.

Horace is also survived by his brother Gary Burnett and his wife Sandy, and his sister Judy Edgar. Horace is preceded in death by his parents Virginia and James Burnett, and his beloved granddaughter, Alexis Burnett- now reunited with him in eternal peace.

Horace's life was a testament to faith, perseverance, and love. He understood that while earthly journeys have final approaches, through Jesus Christ there is a promise of a greater destination- one without storms, where the skies are forever clear. We take comfort in knowing that he has been welcomed home by the Father, hearing the words every faithful servant longs for: "Well done."

Though he has departed this runway, his spirit continues to soar in the hearts of all who knew him. His life reminds us to keep our heading true, our faith strong, and our eyes lifted upward- always trusting in God's guidance.

Clear skies and tailwinds, Captain Horace Burnett. You are cleared for your final ascent.