James Dylan Burkett

James Dylan Burkett, age 15, of Redford, passed away on Sunday, March 8, 2026, from accidental injuries, four days after celebrating his 15th birthday. Born on March 4, 2011, in Douglas, Georgia, he was the cherished son of James and Amanda (Marcoux) Burkett and a ninth-grade student at Redford Union High School.

Dylan was a bright, buoyant presence whose smile lit up every room. He loved the outdoors, fishing, riding his bike, and going barefoot. A natural leader, he enjoyed helping others learn, welcomed everyone without judgment, and made friends easily with people of all ages. Honest, funny, and delightfully goofy, he carried a contagious energy and a kindness that left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He hoped one day to join his father and uncle in their tree service business.

Dylan held a deep respect for law enforcement and dreamed of becoming a police officer. He treasured the stickers officers gave him and always responded with a respectful “yes sir” or “yes ma’am.” Devoted to his parents and a true mama’s boy, he made a point of sharing his day with his mother and proudly showed her letters from his best friend. He visited her every Sunday without fail and was even learning to dance for her Quinceañera. He truly never had a bad word to say about anyone.

He is survived by his parents, James and Amanda Burkett; siblings, Hailey Delewsky, Jerome Delewsky, Melissa Burkett, Logan Burkett, and Brianna Burkett; grandparents, Janet (Bobby) Ellison, Eddie and Connie Burkett; aunts and uncles, Crystal (Matt) Chahine, Kenneth (Sara) Marcoux, Kim (Josh) Kirkland, and Mark Burkett; best friends, Alexa, Patrick, and Mason; and numerous cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Kenneth Marcoux, Sr., and his aunt, Heather Marcoux.