Thomas "Tommy" Dale Burkett

Thomas “Tommy” Dale Burkett, 72, of San Angelo, TX, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 2, 2024, surrounded by family. Born on August 5, 1951, to J.M. “Dude” Burkett and Aline Holsenbeck Burkett. Tommy grew up alongside his siblings Judy Burkett and Jay Burkett.

Tommy was a graduate of Lake View High School. He went on to serve his country in the US Navy from 1970 to 1976, achieving the rank of Aviation Ordinance man 2 (AO2/E-5). He served with distinction, specializing in air-launched weapons and supporting F-4 fighter missions – even lending his expertise to the renowned US Navy Blue Angels flight demonstration team. A Vietnam War Era Veteran, Tommy served six months overseas, for which he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal. For his commendable character and professionalism, Petty Officer Burkett was awarded the Good Conduct Medal.

Following his military service, Tommy worked in various professions, including: a landman, a satellite engineer assistant, and an electrician. Tommy was known for his storytelling, his playful pranks, and his unwavering patriotism.

Tommy is survived by his son, Cody Todd Burkett of FL; granddaughter, Cheyenne Burkett of FL; sister, Judy Burkett of Weatherford, TX; brother, Jay Burkett of San Angelo, TX; niece, Heather Johnson and husband Trey of Weatherford, TX, along with their children: Maci, Hayes, and Chloe; nephew, Heath Elliott “Dawg” and wife Lindsey of San Angelo, TX, along with their children: Kaitlyn, Kameron, Rylee, Olyvia, Abigail and Major Boaz “Gunny”; and special friends, Kevin Nicol and Cindy Haass, as well as numerous cousins.

He is preceded in death by his parents Dude Burkett and Aline Burkett.

A visitation will be held on Friday, June 7, 2024, at Harper Funeral Home from 5:00pm-7:00pm. The Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at Harper Funeral Home at 10:00am. Burial to follow at Grape Creek Cemetery.

The pallbearers will be Heath Elliott “Dawg”, Jeff Fleming, Rick Fleming, Bruce Cole, Greg “Bones” Pierce, and Jamie Soto. Honorary pallbearers are Jay Burkett, Boaz Elliott “Gunny” and James Elliott.