Gerald L. Burnett

Gerald L. Burnett of Shreveport, Louisiana, passed away on March 11, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He lived a full life devoted to those he cherished most.

Gerald was born in Kilgore, Texas on November 5, 1946. He was a proud member of the 1965 class of Woodlawn High School and football team, and went on to play two years of football at Tyler Junior College. Thereafter he attended Louisiana State University and Tulane University, where he received a law degree which served as the foundation for his distinguished career as an attorney for over 50 years.

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, Jimmie and Martha Burnett. He is survived by his beloved partner and wife of over 30 years, Retha Burnett, whose love and companionship were the center of his life. He also leaves behind his children: Wade Burnett and wife, Amy; Cricket Jeter and husband, Atwood; Jordan Thaxton and husband, Frank; Jennifer Gregory and husband, Sean; and Douglas Brown and wife, Erika. He is also survived by his sister, Shirley Jarman, husband Ron, and their children, Brian and Jason.

Gerald was a prideful “Papa” to his grandchildren – Taylor, Sam, Jake, James, Grant, Kathryn, Cade, Alex, Frank, Jack, and Charlie – who brought him immense joy. Above all, Gerald will be remembered for the deep love he had for his wife, his family, and especially his grandchildren. When Gerald wasn’t doting on the aforementioned family members, he spent many happy days taking road trips, going to rodeos, fishing on the coast, and tending the grill in the backyard.

Visitation will be held Saturday, March 14, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home South, 2500 Southside Dr. in Shreveport. A private family burial will be held Sunday, March 15, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. at Forest Park West Cemetery.

In honor of Gerald’s life, the family appreciates donations to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.