Kenneth W. Burnett

Kenneth W. Burnett, 87, of Sedalia, Missouri, passed away Monday, April 20, 2026, at E.W. Thompson Residence Center in Sedalia. He was born July 5, 1938, in Sedalia, a son of Earl Burnett and Ruth (Simon) Burnett, who preceded him in death.

On April 15, 1976, in Sedalia, Kenneth was united in marriage to Pansy Sleeper, who survives at their home.

Kenneth was a proud graduate of Smith-Cotton High School, Class of 1956. Following high school, he enlisted in the United States Army and served his country honorably from 1956 to 1958. After returning home, Kenneth began working as a mechanic at Mike O'Connor Chevrolet dealership. He later went to work for Rival Manufacturing, where he met the love of his life, Pansy (Sleeper) Hayslip. Kenneth remained with Rival until its closing and was serving as Plant Manager at that time.

Kenneth enjoyed fishing and found great happiness in spending time in his garage, building cars and engines with his son, Troy. He was affectionately known by many as "Kenny Honey," a nickname lovingly given to him by the children in his wife's daycare.

Kenneth will be fondly remembered and dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his wife, Pansy, he is survived by two sons, Troy Burnett of Sedalia and Chad Hayslip of Raymore, Missouri; twelve grandchildren; one sister, Shirley Moriarty of Sedalia; one brother, Gary Burnett (Jan) of Sedalia; one daughter-in-law, MaryAnn Hayslip of Kentucky; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members.

In addition to his parents, Kenneth was preceded in death by one son, Donovan Hayslip.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, April 30, 2026, at Rea Funeral Chapel, with Pastor Andrew Anderson officiating.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the chapel.

Burial will be at Memorial Park Cemetery in Sedalia, with full military honors conducted by the United States Army and Sedalia VFW Post #2591. The Patriot Guard Riders will escort the procession to the cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Tony Davis, Richard Simon, Mike Moon, Nolan Simon, Jamie Ditzfeld, Devin Gaspard, and Dana Sleeper.

Honorary bearers will be Gail Bormann, Denice Moon, Nicole Burnett, Dawn McNeeley, Laura Cramer, and Cindy Lewis.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family in the care of Rea Funeral Chapel.

Arrangements are under the direction of Rea Funeral Chapel.