Byron Burkett Sr., 85, a retired pastor, died Oct. 19 at his home in the Reedy Fork community near Seneca.
He was born in Eastanollee, Ga., in Stephens County, in 1921.
Burkett served as pastor of numerous Upstate churches over the years, including Northside Baptist Church, Parkway Baptist Church, Welcome Baptist Church, and Reedy Fork Baptist Church, Seneca. He was employed in the Agricultural Engineering Department of Clemson University for more than 30 years.
He was a veteran of World War II, in which he served in the United States Navy, and received the Bronze Star for his heroic service on the U.S.S. Randolph.
Burkett was predeceased by his wife, Mildred Ruth Nelms Burkett, and one son. He is survived by three children, nine grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.