William “Bill” Burnette, 77, died the evening of Nov. 29, 2017 in Pinehurst surrounded by his daughters and several grandchildren.

Comfort came knowing he was ready and looking forward to reuniting with the love of his life, Betty Jane Allgood Burnette. In his 77 years, he traveled the world selling tobacco and rose to the top of his profession as president of Piedmont Leaf Tobacco Co., launched pre-Nintendo handheld electronic golf games Pro Golf I & Pro Golf II, owned two golf courses, and developed premier properties in the area. A lifelong Democrat, he unsuccessfully ran for State Senate hoping to use his negotiating skills for the betterment of residents of Davie and Rowan counties. The family has received notes from all over sharing thankfulness for his vision to leave his mark for generations to come. Growing up in Southern Virginia, he said his mother and father made sure he and his three brothers stayed out of prison and hoped one, or all, would go into the ministry. Neither came to be, but that union did produce four offspring, each different, all sharing the love of singing, dancing, and golf.

Survivors: 3 daughters, Sally (Austin) McGuire, Leslie Burnette Brown, and Jane Blair (Paul) Daniel; 7 grandchildren, Avee McGuire, Will McGuire, Ben McGuire, Zach Brown, Wes Daniel, Hudson Daniel, and John Daniel; brothers, Mark (Dianne) Burnette, Jerry (Joy) Burnette, Tom (Alice) Burnette; and long-time friend, Brigitte Boles.

In celebrating his life, he requested his favorite gospel tunes be played, casual golf attire worn and a glass of wine enjoyed at WinMock at Kinderton on Sunday, Dec. 3 for a service beginning at 1:30 followed by a social reception, sharing memories gathering for a toast to a life well-lived.

Memorials: Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home, 101 Hospice Lane Winston-Salem, 27103; or to A Storehouse for Jesus, PO Box 216, Mocksville.

Condolences: www.hayworth-miller.com.