Persy Rynn Burnette

In Loving Memory of Persy

On September 23, 2023, the world said goodbye to a radiant soul, Persy Rynn Burnette. From the moment he was born on April 25, 2019, he brought unparalleled joy and happiness, touching the lives of all who were fortunate to know him. As we grieve his earthly departure, we take solace in knowing that he is now perfected in the embrace of Jesus.

In November 2021, Persy was diagnosed with stage 4 (high risk) neuroblastoma. Despite facing the harshest of treatments including chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and immunotherapy, he met each challenge with unparalleled bravery and unwavering joy. Persy personified resilience and positivity, showing all those around him the true essence of courage and the incredible attitude needed to battle cancer. Throughout this journey, he was the family's leader, guiding them all with his steadfast spirit.

Persy was an extraordinary child, embodying a rare blend of intelligence, curiosity, and pure love. His vivid blue eyes told stories of a world seen with wonder, and his smile—a magnetic force of warmth—had the power to illuminate the darkest rooms. His intellect was beyond his years; not only did he master the English alphabet, but he also learned the Spanish, Greek, Coptic, and Cyrillic alphabets by watching YouTube. A budding astronomer, Persy could effortlessly list the planets, their dwarf counterparts, and even their moons. And those fortunate enough to be listed on his iPad contacts often found their days brightened by his digital artwork or voice notes filled with invitations and messages of love. These mementos have since become cherished treasures, their value amplified by the void left behind.

Beyond his innate gifts, what truly set Persy apart were the qualities of his heart. His love—vast and all-encompassing—manifested in every embrace, every laugh, and every shared moment. He possessed the rare ability to make each person he encountered feel uniquely cherished, forever imprinting their hearts with his indomitable spirit.

Leaving a void impossible to fill, he is survived by his devoted parents, Ryan and Brittany; his ever-adoring little brother, Kepler (2); paternal grandparents, Matt Burnette and Pamela Rittenhouse, and maternal grandparents Earl and Sonia Sorensen. His legacy also lives on in his aunts, uncles, and cousins—including Kolby Lindsey (4), Conrad Warth (6), Harley Austin (10) and Mac Austin (12)—all of whom will forever hold their memories of Persy close to their hearts.

As we navigate the depths of our grief for Persy, we simultaneously embrace the privilege of having known such an inspiring soul. His essence—his joy, spirit, and boundless love—will forever echo in the corridors of our hearts.

We invite all who knew and loved Persy to join us in celebrating his remarkable life. The service will be held on October 7, 2023, at 11:00 am at St. John’s Presbyterian Church, located at 4275 Herschel St, Jacksonville, FL 32210. Everyone is warmly invited to attend and share in this moment of remembrance and tribute. Embracing Persy's vibrant spirit, we kindly ask attendees to refrain from wearing black and instead don the brightest of colors in his honor.

In lieu of flowers we humbly ask that any desired tributes be made as donations to one of the following foundations:

Tom Coughlin Jay Fund: https://tcjayfund.org

Dreams Come True: https://www.dreamscometrue.org

Candlelighters NYC: https://candlelightersnyc.org

Corporate Angel Network: https://www.corpangelnetwork.org

AeroAngel: https://www.aeroangel.org

Live Like Bella: https://livelikebella.org

V for Victory: https://vforvictory.org

Additionally, as we look to the future with hearts full of gratitude and determination, we will be initiating projects in Persy's honor. For those who wish to stay informed and support these endeavors, please subscribe for email updates at Persy's website: https://persyburnette.com.