Sibley Burnett

1940 - 2023

Sibley Burnett

Lake Mary, FL - Sibley Charles Burnett, 82, of Lake Mary, Florida passed away on October 30,2023. Born December 30, 1940 in Nashville, Tennessee, Sibley was the son of the late Sibley Curtis Burnett and Anita Florence Vaught.

Sibley is survived by his wife Cindy, children James and wife Karen Burnett, Wesley Burnett, Elizabeth and husband Eric Peters, Kimberly and husband Zachary Delisle and Sharon Parker; his grandchildren Cody and wife Valentina Peters, Matthew Peters and fiancé Alicia Brothers, Courtney Peters and fiancé Chase Bertrand, Cierra Burnett, Annabelle Delisle and Parker Siksay. He is also survived by a great grandchild, Camden and two beloved nephews Curtis and Kevin Butler. Sibley was preceded in death by his sister Mary Butler.

Sibley had a passion for education and attended Georgetown College in KY, earning a degree in physics. He went on to receive his masters and doctoral degrees in nuclear physics from the University of Tennessee in Nashville. He had an illustrious career working at the Los Alamos National Laboratory, the Atomic Energy Commission, Exxon Nuclear and General Atomics, where he was Director of Fusion Research. Here he was responsible for the startup of the Doublet III fusion experimental reactor, which is still in use today. Later, he saw an opportunity to harness superconducting magnet technology developed at GA and started a spin-off company, Applied SuperConetics, to produce the first MRI body imaging magnet which could fit into and be carried by truck. This brought MRI to small hospitals which had previously been unable to afford it. His proudest professional achievement came when he formed his own company, Advanced Cryo Magnetics Inc. with partner John Purcell. Together they developed innovative superconducting magnet separators for purifying kaolin (China clay). They successfully sold magnets in the USA, UK and the Czech Republic.

Sibley had a zest for life. He developed a love of international travel and made it a priority to explore local landmarks and cuisine wherever he went. Music was another of his passions and he showcased his rich, deep bass voice by singing and directing youth and adult choirs, as well as providing music for community theater. He also indulged in his love for fine dining and wine by embarking on numerous trips to wine producing regions worldwide with a close-knit group of friends. Throughout his lifetime he visited more than 25 countries.

Sibley Charles Burnett leaves behind a legacy of innovation, adventure and a deep appreciation for the arts. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.

No formal services will be conducted. For those wishing to express their sympathy, the family requests donations be made to the Monadnock Humane Society in Keene NH or their local humane society in remembrance of Sibley.