Obituaries

Helen Marie Bullard Burnette

Helen Marie Bullard Burnette: 1947 - 2026

Helen Marie Bullard Burnette, 78, of Franklin, NC went to be with the Lord, her Savior on June 12, 2026. She was surrounded by her loving family who will miss her dearly. Helen was born on December 18, 1947 in Wilmington, NC to the late William and Louise Bullard. Helen was a loving mother, grandmother and friend to many. She shined her light as a caring, supportive and prayerful servant for her Lord and Savior!

Upon graduating high school, Helen attended Grady Memorial Hospital Nursing School, graduating as a registered nurse in 1968. She visited Franklin during college and met her future husband, Buster. Helen and Buster were married on March 23, 1968. They began their married life and family in Franklin. Buster went to be with the Lord on August 8, 2011.

Helen worked as a nurse at Angel Hospital but her influence of young lives as a Health Occupational Teacher at Franklin High School was her legacy.

She was of Baptist faith and a faithful member of Cowee Baptist Church. Helen had a passion for the children’s ministry. Alongside her husband, they helped established a children’s wing at the church to serve young lives for Jesus!

She is survived by a daughter, Christy Burnette Hart and husband Randy; a son, Brian Burnette and wife Kim, all of Franklin. Helen was so proud and dearly loved of her grandson, Wyatt.

Helen has two sisters Brenda Macheski (Charlie), of Murphy, NC and Candy Baker, of Blairsville, GA.

A Celebration of life will be held on Monday, June 15, 2026 at 1:00 pm at Cowee Baptist Church. Burial to follow in church cemetery. Jason Smith and David Powell will officiate. Pallbearers will be Wyatt Burnette, Joey Gibson, Chandler Ellenburg, Larry Pickens, Dustin Pendergrass and Tom Forkner.

In lieu of flowers the family wished donations to be made to Cowee Baptist Church in Helen’s memory.

Online condolences can be made at www.maconfuneralhome.com.

Macon Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

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