Larry R. Burnett

Larry Ray Burnett, 80, of Kansas City, MO (formerly Parsons KS) passed away Saturday morning, November 4, 2023, surrounded by his family.

Larry was born on April 19, 1943, in Indianola, IA to Delbert and Beulah Burnett. He grew up in Indianola and attended Indianola High School where he met the love of his life, Joyce Little. He later married Joyce and stayed in Indianola to play football at Simpson College. He graduated with an education degree. While in Indianola, Larry and Joyce welcomed their first born, Mike.  Their second son, Bob also arrived during this time. Larry's career as an outstanding running back led him to eventually be inducted into the Simpson Athletic Hall of Fame.

After his collegiate career, Larry continued his passion for football and played briefly for the Des Moines Warriors.  Larry and Joyce moved to La Porte City, IA in 1966. This is where he began his coaching career at La Porte City High School. Their family continued to grow as they welcomed their third son, Dan. In 1969, a coaching opportunity took them to Hampton IA. During the summers, Larry attended classes and worked to gain his master's degree from Northeastern Missouri State.  In 1977, the family of 5 moved to Parsons, Kansas where Larry later started his career at Labette Community College. He worked for LCC for 25 years in a variety of roles and retired in 2005.

While raising his three sons, Larry was a dedicated and loyal patron of the city of Parsons, Parsons High School, and Labette Community College.  Outside of his professional contributions, Larry volunteered countless hours coaching and molding youth in Parsons and supporting Parsons High School and Labette Booster clubs. He also officiated high school basketball and football games in the area.

Larry's sons and grandchildren shared his passion for sports. It brought him immense joy to follow their athletic careers from youth through college.  There were very few events that he couldn't be found in the stands, loudly cheering. In fact, he was famous for being at the stadium early enough to paint the lines on the field and greet the team, as he usually arrived before the bus. When he wasn't being a spectator, Larry enjoyed playing softball, bowling and golfing with his friends.

Larry is survived by his wife of 62 years, Joyce Burnett of Kansas City, MO. His sons; Mike Burnett (Rose Mary) of Kansas City, MO. Bob Burnett (Joline White) of Overland Park, KS. Dan Burnett (Becky) of Lawrence, KS. And his four grandchildren; Carl Taibi, Marla Ducey (Brad) Bryan Burnett, and Seth Burnett. His brother, Charles Burnett and sister, Amy Endres.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother Earl (Pork) Burnett.

The memorial service will be at 11am Friday, November 17, 2023, at Wesley United Methodist Church, 500 Leawood Drive, Parsons KS.

Memorials are suggested to Labette Community College Wrestling Program or the Memorial Fund at Wesley United Methodist Church.  These may be left at or mailed to Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home, P.O Box 374, Parsons, KS  67357.