Elvin "Gene" Burkett

Elvin E. (Gene) Burkett, 86, gained his Angel Wings on December 10, 2023, at Russell Medical Center in Alexander City, AL after a brief illness. He was the widower of Martina Sue Majors Burkett. They knew each other since early childhood and were married for 43 years.

Gene was born in Stockton, AL on August 19, 1937, to Robert W. & Ara C. Burkett. The family moved to Pensacola before his first-grade year in school. He graduated in 1958 from Tate High School in Cantonment. He played the clarinet in the marching band and was known for his practical jokes and pulling harmless pranks. After high school he went into the U.S. Air Force, where he spent 4 years on active duty and 2 years as a reservist. Gene went to college at PJC and Santa Fe Community College while working and taking care of his family. While at Santa Fe CC he received a degree as a Cardio-Respiratory Therapist. He then decided to go into the U. S. Army Reserves in 1975 to serve our country. While in the Army Reserves, he went to 91C School and received a degree as an LPN and was deployed during Desert Storm. He proudly served until he retired at 60 years of age as a First Sergeant. He worked as a Registered Respiratory Therapist at the VA Hospital in Montgomery until May 2023.

Gene was a member of Trinity Baptist Church in Montgomery and loved his church. He was dedicated to God, his family and his work. He was a huge animal lover and was known for bringing home strays whether it be dogs, cats, goats, chickens or any other critter.

Gene is survived by his daughter, Martina A. Burkett; granddaughter, Mary Beth Hardt (Josh); grandson, Neal Russell; 4 great grandchildren - Kallie, Owen, Parker and LouLou; his fur babies, Jazzy, Petey, Ginger, Lady and Riley; along with several nieces and nephews.

Gene was pre-deceased by his wife of 43 years, Martina "Sue" Majors Burkett; son, Robert S. Burkett; his father and mother, Robert & Ara Burkett; brothers, Bobby, Dick, & Buddy; sister, Katherine; and father & mother-in-law, Joseph S. & Myrtle L. Majors.

The funeral service will be at 11:30 am at Eastern Gate Memorial Funeral Home & Gardens on Saturday, December 16, 2023, with committal and Military Honors at 12:30. Visitation will be from 11:00 am to 11:30 am.