Longtime Brownwood Resident Billy Ray Burkett Passes Away at 80

Burkett leaves behind a large family and legacy in the local community.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 1:31am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Billy Ray Burkett, a longtime resident of Brownwood, Texas, passed away on January 27, 2026 at the age of 80. Burkett was born in 1945 in Century, Florida and moved to Brownwood as a young man, where he married his wife Ella Mae Kinsey in 1965. The couple had four children together and were deeply involved in the local community, with Burkett coaching his sons' baseball teams and being an avid listener of Brownwood Lions football games.

Why it matters

Burkett's passing marks the end of an era for a family that has been rooted in the Brownwood community for decades. As a beloved local figure, his death will be felt by many in the area who knew him through his various community involvements and family ties.

The details

Burkett is survived by his four children, 18 grandchildren, and 21 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Ella, as well as other close family members. The family will be hosting a visitation and funeral service at the Heartland Funeral Home in Early, Texas on January 30, 2026, with interment to follow at the Zephyr Cemetery in Zephyr, Texas.

  • Burkett passed away on January 27, 2026.
  • Visitation will be held at 12:00 PM on January 30, 2026.
  • Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM on January 30, 2026.
  • Interment will follow at Zephyr Cemetery in Zephyr, Texas.

The players

Billy Ray Burkett

An 80-year-old longtime resident of Brownwood, Texas who passed away on January 27, 2026. Burkett was born in 1945 in Century, Florida and moved to Brownwood as a young man, where he married his wife Ella Mae Kinsey in 1965. The couple had four children together and were deeply involved in the local community.

Ella Mae Kinsey

Burkett's wife, who passed away prior to him.

Christie Hart

Burkett's daughter who lives in Zephyr, Texas.

Donnie Burkett

Burkett's son who lives in Brownwood, Texas.

Jody Burkett

Burkett's son who lives in Zephyr, Texas.

James Burkett

Burkett's son who lives in Zephyr, Texas.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

Billy Ray Burkett's passing marks the end of an era for a family that has been deeply rooted in the Brownwood community for decades. His involvement in local sports, community events, and large family legacy will be remembered by many in the area.