OBITUARY

Mrs. Marion Diane Burnette, 76 years of age, of Social Circle, Georgia, passed away on April 8, 2026.  Marion was born in Duluth, Georgia, on May 8, 1949, to the late Moses David Hamrick and the late Clyde Elizabeth (Cook) Hamrick.  She was preceded in death by her brother, Donald Hamrick.  

Surviving members of the family are her loving husband, Jack Burnette, Jr.; daughter, Jennifer Smith (Eric); sons, Jonathan Burnette (Debbie), Bradley Burnette; sister, Rebecca Hamrick; brothers, Douglas Hamrick and David Hamrick; grandchildren, Andrew Burnette (Tracy), Haley Burnette, Connor Smith, Lily Smith; great-grandchild, Zoey Burnette; and many nieces and nephews.  

Marion Burnette leaves behind a legacy of strength, resilience, and deep love for her family.  In 1993, she gained her "Nana" title.  For 33 years to date, she was a special foundation of love and comfort to her grandchildren.  She was the place they could truly go home to no matter how far they had travel or how late they arrived.  

One of her proudest accomplishments was becoming the first woman to graduate from the Gwinnett County Police Academy and serve as a police officer, an achievement that reflected her strength, independence, and willingness to push beyond limits.

She also found joy and connection in the quieter moments of life. She was a dedicated quilter with the Quilting Bells, pouring love and creativity into every piece she made. She cherished her time with her church community, where she found friendship, faith, and fellowship.

She carried more than most, but she faced it with strength and determination.

She will be remembered as a fighter, someone who endured, who persevered, and who made the best out of a very hard life. Her story is one of survival, courage, and love.

There will be a visitation for family and friends on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm at Meadows Funeral Home (760 Highway 11, SW) in Monroe, Georgia.  

The family of Marion requests donations be made to The Alzheimer's Association in her memory.

Meadows Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.