Robert Preston Burkett was born on a winter’s day in Chicago, Illinois, on January 16, 1935, to Evadna and Preston Sylvester Burkett, Robert lived a life infused with what he often described as “Vim, Vigor, and Vitality.”
On Sunday, April 20, 2025, surrounded by the embrace of his loving family, Robert peacefully departed this life.
He was a devoted son, a cherished husband, a loving father, and a loyal friend, remembered for his larger-than-life personality, and the ever-present jazz melodies he hummed and scatted, and his unwavering faith.
After graduating high school, Robert served in the US Marine Corps from the age of eighteen to twenty-two. Following his service, a significant chapter of his life began when he was introduced to Jehovah’s Witnesses. After a period of heartfelt Bible study, he was baptized on February 25, 1961.
Shortly after his baptism, he met his soon-to-be loving wife, Vera Burkett. They married on August 7, 1965, and as newlyweds, they embarked on a dedicated period of service as ‘need-greaters’ in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, dedicating up to 150 hours each month to their ministry. Their journey then led them to Nashville, Tennessee, which they called home for three decades before moving to Murfreesboro, Tennessee, in 2006 to be closer to their growing family.
Robert was a hard worker who excelled at all his endeavors. He supported his family, as a hardworking and successful entrepreneur with his own cleaning business. Many can say that whenever they saw Robert hard at work, he was always whistling a tune with an upbeat disposition.
Robert is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Vera Burkett; his son, Nathan Peter Burkett; and sister, Dorothy Burkett.
He is survived by his two loving daughters, Robin (Michael) Henighan and Abbigail (Alonzo) Stanley; granddaughters, Joy, Michaela, Alivia and Avery; sisters, and a host of other nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Throughout his life, Robert eagerly shared the hope he held for the future. He deeply believed in the promise of everlasting life on a paradise earth. His heartfelt prayer and sincere desire were for everyone to come to know our loving God, Jehovah, and to dedicate their lives in service to Him. (Revelation 21:3, 4)
Visitation With the Family:
Saturday, April 26, 2025
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses
1720 East Northfield Blvd
Murfreesboro, TN
Memorial Service:
Saturday, April 26, 2025
12:00 PM
Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses
1720 East Northfield Blvd
Murfreesboro, TN
https://www.newgenerationfh.com
For more obituaries visit https://davidsoncountysource.com/obituaries/
Subscribe to our Newsletter!
