Larry Reese Burchett

Larry Reese Burchett

Larry Reese Burchett died at home unexpectedly Thursday, July 22, 2010.

A man of unquestioning love, loyalty and dedication to his family, his life was a testament to the principles of hard work, honesty, integrity, self-reliance and sacrifice. These old school qualities defined the man.

A lifelong athlete, he was High School All-Missouri in football, track and basketball. University of Missouri, Columbia football and the University of Virginia Rugby Club. Younger players often remarked how they could not believe a man old enough to be their father could compete as well on the pitch.

Larry and Sarah met while he was stationed at the Norfolk Naval Hospital. They married in 1963 and raised two sons, Michael Andrew and Stephen Douglas. Earlier this year they celebrated their 47th wedding anniversary. The family has made their home in Franklin, Tennesse for 16 years.

Born April 4, 1938, Larry was the eldest of six children born to Kenneth Reese and Elsie Elizabeth Burchett.

Surviving him are his wife, two sons, his beloved mother; four sisters, Joyce Keck, Carolyn Phelps, Elizabeth Rodgers, Kathy Eisel; and his brother, Tom.

The funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 28, 2010, at Christ Church Cathedral, Nashville, Tennesse, with a 3 p.m. internment at the Episcopal Church of the Resurrection on Sneed Road, Franklin, Tennesse.

In accord with the longstanding wish of both Larry and his family, organ/tissue donor gifts were given.

The family requests in lieu of flowers, any memorial donations be made specifically to the Williamson County Rescue Squad, Station 22, 1493 Sneed Road W., Franklin, TN, 37069.

As a dear friend consoled on hearing of his death, "You saw his smile and always knew everything would be all right."


This obituary was originally published in the Daily Progress.