Janet Dailey Burnett

Janet Dailey Burnett, age 81, of The Plains, VA, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2025, at her daughter's home in Spotsylvania, VA.

Born on February 15, 1944, in Winchester, VA, Janet was the daughter of Melvin A. and Elsie Fry Dailey. She grew up in The Plains, VA, and attended high school in Marshall, VA. After high school, Janet began her career as a bank teller in Northern Virginia, where she met Allen "Bunky" Burnett. The two married in early 1968 and were blessed with two children, Dawn and Brice.

In the mid-1970s, Janet and Bunky opened The Barnyard restaurant on Main Street in Marshall, VA, known for its fried chicken and fresh hamburgers. Janet managed all facets of the restaurant for many years, employing and supporting many members of the community. Later, she worked as a realtor for Fauquier Realty in Marshall before returning to her banking roots, serving as branch manager for F&M People's Bank (now Truist).

Janet will be remembered for her kindness, fairness, integrity, and tireless work ethic. She had a special compassion for others and a deep love for animals, especially dogs in need of a home. She possessed a wonderful sense of humor, enjoyed reading historical books and novels, and always made time for her family-especially her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her daughter, Dawn Burnett Swain, and son-in-law, Glen; her son, Brice A. Burnett, and former daughter-in-law, Michelle Himel; grandchildren, Lauren Hunnings, Jacob Hunnings, and John Hunnings; and great-grandchildren, Brice Stoltze and Alyssa Hunnings. She is also survived by her brother, Robert Dailey; sister, Vicky Griffith; her two closest nieces, Gina McGhee and Denise Hines; as well as other nieces, nephews, and cousins. Janet's loving companion of seven years, Robert Kershes, also survives her.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Allen "Bunky" Burnett; parents, Melvin and Elsie Dailey; sister, Linda Grimes; youngest brother, Melvin A. Dailey, Jr.; and first husband, James Waddell.

A celebration of Janet's life will be held at Marshall United Methodist Church, 8405 West Main Street, Marshall, VA, on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. All are welcome to remain afterward for a gathering with food and fellowship.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Stroke Foundation www.thestrokefoundation.org/get-involved/make-a-gift or to the Fauquier SPCA www.fauquierspca.com/how-to-help/donate-2/.