Garry Burton “Burt” Washburn, a devoted family man, decorated Army officer, and lifelong outdoorsman, passed away peacefully at his home on June 9, 2025, at the age of 87, surrounded by his loved ones. Born in Olean, NY on October 1, 1937, Burt grew up in Shinglehouse, PA, where he was the sixth of seven siblings, having five sisters and one older brother. It was there in Shinglehouse where his lifelong love for hunting and fishing was born. Throughout his adult years, whether it was tracking deer through the woods behind his “Mountain House” or rising before dawn at his “Lake House” for a day on the pontoon boat with his family, Burt felt most at peace in nature. He believed in living simply, working hard, and savoring many sunrises in a tree stand or time on the dock with his family and a loyal dog at his side.
Burt proudly served more than 20 years in the United States Army, rising to the rank of Major. A decorated officer and natural leader, he served multiple tours overseas and dedicated his life to serving his country with honor and humility. Throughout his distinguished military career, Burt humbly received numerous commendations for his courage and leadership, never one to seek recognition but always honored to serve. Among his many awards were the Bronze Star for heroic service in a combat zone and the Purple Heart, a solemn reminder of the sacrifices he endured alongside his fellow soldiers. Though he rarely spoke of these honors, those closest to him understood the depth of his commitment and the quiet bravery that defined his years in uniform. For Burt, the true reward was always the privilege of leading and protecting others, leading him to be inducted in Alabama’s Madison County Military Heritage Commission Hall of Heroes. After retiring from active duty, Burt brought his expertise to United Space Boosters, Inc. (USBI), Lockheed Martin, and Boeing as a NASA and Department of Defense contractor, where he continued to support space and national security efforts with the same sense of duty that defined his military career. Major projects included the Space Shuttle Solid Rocket Boosters, Hubble Space Telescope, Theater High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) System, and the Ground-Based Midcourse Defense (GMD) System.
Despite a demanding professional life, Burt always put family first. Burt’s greatest devotion in life was to his beloved wife of 52 years and high school sweetheart, Joy. Their story began in small-town Shinglehouse, PA and grew stronger through decades of life’s challenges and triumphs. From overseas deployments to quiet mornings on the lake, Burt and Joy shared a bond rooted in deep respect, unwavering support, and demonstrated love for one another and their growing family. Burt was a loving father of 3 daughters and grandfather to 10 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, who knew him affectionately as “Papa” and “Grandpa.” Burt had a soft spot for animals, especially dogs, believing they were not just pets but loyal companions and true members of the family.
Burt is survived by two daughters, Laurie Dena Pierce (Joe) and Jennifer Dian Rains (Tony); 10 grandchildren, Jeremy Galloway (Chelsea), Jamie Lee (Kyle), Steven Jenik (LaTasha), Emily Lee (Reece), Dena Trevers (Austen), Hunter Rains, Gabby Markham (Matt), Lindsay Pierce, Tucker Rains, and Jordan Pierce; and 9 great-grandchildren, Brooklyn, Aubrie, Eliot, Katie, Darcy, Hayden, Cooper, Hudson, and Macy, who brought him endless pride and joy. He also leaves behind his older brother, Larry Washburn, and younger sister, Roxy Shea —as well as many nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends who were like family. Burt was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Byrdena Washburn; four sisters, Jacquelyn Washburn, Gloria Nichols, Peggy Wood, and Pat Howard; his loving wife of 52 years, Joy Dian Karr Washburn; a daughter, Amanda Lynn Jenik; and a son-in-law, George Jenik. Though deeply missed, Burt’s legacy of strength, service, and kindness lives on in those who knew and loved him.
A graveside service, including a military honor guard ceremony, will be held on Saturday, June 14 at 2:00 PM at Maple Hill Cemetery in Huntsville, AL.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to “Still Serving Veterans” or the Greater Huntsville Humane Society in Burt’s memory.
