Burton Phelps Emmett

Burton Phelps Emmett, 83, of Summerville, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 20, 2023. Burt was born on January 29, 1940, in Pontiac, Michigan, to Edward Emmett and Marjorie Phelps Emmett. Burt grew up in Michigan with his family. He graduated from high school and later joined the US Armed Forces.

In 1961, he completed Undergraduate Navigator Training. He completed Squadron Officer Training in 1965 and Undergraduate Pilot Training on C-141s in 1967. Burt flew missions during the Vietnam War. He completed the Instructor Pilot Course in 1970 and became a flight instructor. Burt attained the rank of LT Colonel. Burt was honorably discharged from the Air Force in 1980.

Burt loved model trains and collected them throughout his life. He enjoyed building train layouts and running model trains with buddies in local train clubs. He also loved sharing his love of trains with his grandchildren. Burt also loved antique cars and toured with model car clubs for years.

In retirement, Burt loved travelling the United States and visiting new places with Betty. After many years of travelling in their camper, they gave up wandering and bought a summer place in Hendersonville, NC where they made many close friends. Burt always made friends wherever he went.

Burt is survived by his daughters, Marjorie Emmett Gillespie (Dave) and Jeanne Emmett Burden (George); his stepchildren, Emory Rickett (Gayle), Andy Rickett (Debbie), and Julie Rickett Adair (Rory); and siblings Collin Emmett (Jane) and Carol Emmett Heine (Fred). Burt is also survived by 9 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

Burt is preceded in death by his father, and mother, Edward and Marjorie Emmett.
Burt will be greatly missed by his family and friends. He was a kind and gentle man with a big heart. He leaves behind many fond memories of a life well lived.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 pm on Sunday, October 29, 2023, in the Chapel at The Village of Summerville, Presbyterian Home, located at 201 W 9th North Street, Summerville, SC 29483.

In Lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Village of Summerville to benefit residents in care.

Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at palmettocs.com/.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Palmetto Cremation Society, 5638 N Rhett Ave, Charleston, SC 29406 (843-722-2555).