William Daniel Burnette Sr., age 86, of Sanford, passed away on Wednesday (12/18/2024) at his home.  He was born in Buncombe County on April 29, 1938, son of the late Elbert M. Burnette and Katie Ada Brown Burnette.  He was preceded in death by his parents, son, William Daniel Burnette Jr., grandson William Daniel Burnette III.; brothers, Ernest Burnette, Butch Burnette, sister Becky Burnette and his beloved wife of 64 years, Margaret Wagner Burnette.   Graveside funeral services will be conducted at 2:00pm Sunday (12/22/2024) at Center Church Cemetery in Sanford with Evangelist Timothy Burton officiating. Surviving is his daughter, Katie Burnette Raines and husband George of Cameron, NC.  Son, Elbert Charles Burnette and wife Louise of Cameron, NC.  Grandchildren, Anita Sherman Burton, George Raines Jr., Dianna Burnette, Charles Brandon Burnette, Steven Cody Burnette, Jonathan Scott Burnette, eighteen great-grandchildren and seven great great grandchildren.  Online condolences can be made at www.smithfuneralhomebroadway.com  Arrangements are by Smith Funeral Home of Broadway.