Dwain R. Burnett

Dwain R. Burnett was born on September 10, 1956, in Denver, Colorado, to Arthur and Celester Burnett. He attended Manual High School and, after graduating, continued his education at Metropolitan State College of Denver. It was during this time that he met his future wife and the mother of his three children.

Dwain and Deborah welcomed their first child, Marcus, in 1980. In 1983, they made their union official through marriage, and soon thereafter they learned they were expecting a daughter, Cortnay. Their family was completed with the birth of their youngest child, son Casey, in 1987.

As a devoted father of three, Dwain worked a variety of jobs throughout his life. He spent time at the Downtown Denver YMCA, where he developed many lifelong friendships. Later, he built a career in underwriting and worked for Irwin Mortgage for many years. Following an injury that prevented him from continuing full-time work, Dwain briefly went on to disability, but it wasn’t long before his determination and restlessness led him back into the workforce. He took a position as a cafeteria worker with Denver Public Schools, a role that brought him tremendous joy. Known for his love of cooking, Dwain especially cherished preparing meals for others and interacting with students. He frequently came home sharing the highlights of his day. Outside of work, he found peace in gardening and occasionally raising chickens.

Dwain was the second oldest among his siblings, which included four sisters, Doris Harris, Starla Franklin, Arda Burnett, and Selma Smith, and one brother, Arthur Burnett Jr. Although not the oldest by birth, Dwain always carried himself as the protector of the family. He was deeply passionate about the well-being of those he loved and believed wholeheartedly that family extended beyond blood to include friends, neighbors, and anyone who touched his heart.

He leaves behind a powerful legacy of love through his children, Marcus Burnett, Cortnay Crawford, and Casey Burnett. His memory lives on through his grandchildren: Marcus Burnett Jr., Jordan Burnett, Jahiem Burnett, Nolin Burnett, Asia Crawford, Aaliyah Crawford, Gabril Crawford, Garrett Crawford Jr., and Aniya Crawford. He was also blessed with a great-granddaughter, Taelynn Crawford. Dwain leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews, also his girlfriend Cherise Thomas whom he deeply adored. Dwain was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur Burnett and Celester Burnett, and his sisters Doris Harris and Starla Franklin.

Though Dwain will be truly missed, his joy-filled laughter and generous spirit will never be forgotten.

Dwain will have a memorial service at Lowry Community Christian Church Friday, May 8, 2026, promptly at 11:00am, 855 Yosemite St, Denver CO 80230.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the UNCF, in honor of Dwain R. Burnett