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

Dylan was a bright, buoyant presence with a smile that lit up every room. He loved the outdoors: fishing, riding his bike and being barefoot.  He was a natural leader, who enjoyed helping others learn, welcomed everyone, never judged, and seemed to find a way to make friends with people of all ages. Honest, funny, and delightfully goofy, Dylan carried a contagious energy and a kindness that left a lasting impression on all who met him.  Dylan had hoped one day to join his father and uncle in their tree service business.

Dylan had a deep respect for law enforcement and dreamed of becoming a police officer. He treasured the stickers officers gave himand always answered with a respectful "yes sir" or "yes ma'am."  Devoted to his parents — a true mama's boy — he made a point of telling his mother about his day and proudly showed her the letters his bestfriend had written telling him she loved him. He visited her every Sunday without fail and was even learning to dance for her Quinceañera. He truly never had a bad word about anyone.

Dylan 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.  Sadly, Dylan was preceded in death by his grandfather, Kenneth Marcoux, Sr. and aunt, Heather Marcoux.

Dylan's family will receive guests on Sunday, March 15, beginning at 2 pm until the 7 pm funeral service and sharing of memories, at the funeral home. Click HERE for a livestream of the services .

A memorial fund in Dylan's name is currently being established for those who wish to donate safety equipment for children and young adults.

Help Dylan's family give him a proper farewell

Thank you for keeping Dylan's family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.