Mark Allan McBurnett 1951-2022

It is impossible to capture the measure of a life in a few words. We will miss his warm smile and twinkling eyes that reflected his love of God, his family and spread that love to all those he encountered. Mark was a doting husband, father and friend. Many hours were spent talking about his faith, listening to music, especially of his musical family and his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The tender care of family was transmitted and apparent in all the loving children and grandchildren.

Mark and wife Sally were an inseparable duo who received everyone into their home with welcoming hospitality. Many will remember his kindness and thoughtfulness. In his 50-year career as a jeweler and store owner, Mark’s artistry increased the joy of thousands through the creation of symbols of love in precious gems and metals. He passed down the skills and artistic legacy to his son, Jonathan; son-in-law, Matthew; and several friends.

Mark started as a watchmaker for Nowlin Jewelry in Lake Jackson, where he grew up, and then studied jewelry design and repair under master craftsman Preston Cummings in Austin.

His zest for life has shifted to the eternal with his father, Harry McBurnett; mother, Elizabeth York Akins; and brother, David McBurnett, who preceded him in death. Mark was born in Grand Saline and passed away of COVID pneumonia at Hospice of East Texas.

He is mourned by his wife, Sally; children, Matthew McBurnett (Jennifer), Jennifer Day-Pate (Nick), Sarah Bowdin (Matthew), Emily Morgan (Michael), Jonathan McBurnett (Haley), Samuel McBurnett, Michael McBurnett (Stacey) and Bethany McBurnett; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; brother, Ralph McBurnett (Inez); sister, Martha McBurnett; nephews and nieces; other family, friends and community.