Johnny Burt

Mr. Johnny Burt, age 90, of Dahlonega, Georgia passed away Friday, February 4, 2022.  He was born on November 17, 1931 to the late Lafayette Isom Garrett Burt and Bevie Doss Burt.

Johnny was a self-taught businessman who became one of the best welders in North Georgia. He worked hard and tirelessly to achieve his goals. Upon his “retirement” (actually, he never stopped working) he became known for having the most beautiful garden in his front yard. Full of luscious, red tomatoes that he shared with many friends. It was observed that the only time traffic was slow coming off Crown Mountain was when people braked to admire his garden. He loved his garden. 

His early life accomplishments followed him through the years. In 1951 he and a cadre of 29 from the 6th Ranger Company were the first to offer the mountain phase of the U.S. Army Ranger School. This school was established at what is known as Pine Valley; a recreational area of the University of North Georgia. It was during this training period that he met Christine while she worked the ticket booth at the Holly Theater. As of his passing he was the sole remaining member of the original cadre of Pine Valley Mountain Ranger Camp instructors. 

In November 2017, Johnny was asked to “lead the way” (as we all know, Rangers Lead the Way!) as Grand Marshal of the Dahlonega Veterans Day Parade. It was a most cherished event for him – especially since his four “Burt Girls” were right behind him. His girls were his most prized achievement.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Lillie Christine Jarrard Burt; infant son John Michael Burt; daughter Jan Burt; and son-in-law Peter Knapp.

Survivors include daughters Lynn (Larry) Armstrong; Brenda Knapp, and Jeannine Burt; grandchildren Trent (Brandi) Armstrong, Troy (Melody) Armstrong, Shelly (Kevin) Riddle, Stefanie (Richard) Yoon, Sebastian Knapp, Jesse Rockmore, and Jordan (Zack) Duff; great grandchildren Kayla Armstrong, Karlee Armstrong, Yazzmyn Milligan (Hunter Martin), Jeramy Milligan, Jackson Riddle, Miles Yoon, Finley Yoon, and Eloise Yoon; great-great grandchild Wrenleigh Martin; and sister-in-law Virginia Jarrard.

Graveside services are scheduled for 2:00 PM Monday, February 7, 2022 at Dahlonega Memorial Park Cemetery with the Rev. Lyman Caldwell officiating.

To share a memory of Johnny or a condolence with the family, visit andersonunderwood.com

Anderson-Underwood Funeral Home, 2068 Highway 19 North, Dahlonega, GA 30533.