Heartsill Burnett

Heartsill Burnett, 95, of Atkins, passed away Friday, March 10, 2017, at St. Vincent's Infirmary in Little Rock following a brief iilness. He was born July 15, 1921, son of the late Walter and Mamie Burnett of Atkins. Heartsill served in the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in Idaho, and worked at Randolph Air Force Base near San Antonio, Texas, before transferring to Deming Air Field in Deming, N.M. While in Deming, he studied the leather trade. He was a master craftsman of custom saddles, belts, chaps, purses, and wallets. His work is easily recognizable by his signature patterns and craftsmanship. He retired from B.F. Smith and Son Saddlery in North Little Rock, and attended Hopewell Baptist Church in Atkins. One of Heartsill's favorite hobbies was listening to music, particularly western swing. His favorite joy in life was his family. He married his wife, Virginia, 66 years ago, and they were rarely apart. They enjoyed life together and took great pride in their family. Heartsill always looked forward to family gatherings no matter how large or small. He was happiest when with his family. He was also blessed with many dear friends in his life and enjoyed the fun times they shared. Heartsill will be remembered as a kind and patient man who always put others before himself in all walks of life. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Cray Burnett and Durard Burnett; and a sister, Mary Treat. He is survived by his wife, Virginia; daughter, Pam (Ronnie) Lambert of Benton; son, Bruce (Sharon) Burnett of Marble Falls; grandchildren, Sarah Burnett of College Station, Texas, Brendan Burnett and Emily Burnett of Marble Falls; two sisters, Clarene Swearingen of Little Rock, and Nell Warren of Atkins; and numerous nieces and nephews. Funeral services are 2 p.m., Tuesday, March 14, at Lemley Chapel with Rev. Charlie Bird officiating. Burial is in Oakland Cemetery under the direction of Lemley Funeral Service of Atkins. Visitation will be held one hour prior to services at Lemley Chapel. Online obituary and condolences are available at www.lemleyfuneral.com.