Gregory D. Burnett Sr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and pillar of his community, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 28, 2025. He was 65 years old.

Born on September 23, 1959, in New York, NY, Gregory was the cherished son of the late Sylvester Burnett and Violet Ferguson. From an early age, Greg embodied the values of leadership, service, and joy—principles that guided his life and left a lasting imprint on all who knew him.

Brother Gregory D. Burnett Sr. was a devoted servant leader, tireless community advocate, and a faithful Omega man. He earned dual undergraduate degrees in Biology and Sociology from Syracuse University, and in 1983 began a distinguished career at IBM Corporation, eventually serving as Executive Talent Program Manager in Global Technology Services North America.

A proud and active member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. for over 42 years (Life Member #3107), Greg served the fraternity with unmatched dedication at every level—chapter, district, and international. His leadership included serving as Basileus of both Alpha Nu and Kappa Omicron Chapters, Keeper of Records and Seal, First District Protocol Chairman, and Chairman of the International Achievement Week and Community/Civic Affairs Committees. In recognition of his unwavering commitment, he received the International Superior Service Award, one of the fraternity’s highest honors.

Greg’s passion for service extended deeply into his beloved city of Norwalk, Connecticut. He served as an elected City Council Member, Democratic Majority Leader, and Chairman of the Finance and Claims Committee. He also chaired the Board of Estimate and Taxation and previously served on the Board of Education, Board of Health, and Facilities Construction Committee.

Throughout his life, Greg was driven by a love for uplifting others—mentoring youth through the Norwalk Mentor Program and Project Uplift, serving on the Salvation Army Advisory Board, and volunteering on the city’s COVID-19 Planning & Response Team and the Fairfield County Strike Force. He was an active member of the Norwalk Branch NAACP, serving on the Executive Committee and as both Assistant Secretary and Assistant Treasurer.

He was also a proud Mason, respected for his integrity, leadership, and commitment to brotherhood. For his lifelong service, he was honored with the Silver Eagle Award by the Connecticut Council of Deliberation.

While Greg’s public service was profound, it was his love for family and life's simple joys that truly defined him. He was a natural comedian, always ready with a joke, a quick wit, or a story that would leave the room in stitches. A loyal New York Knicks fan, he treasured attending games throughout the season with his sons, Greg Jr. and Justin, turning shared fandom into cherished tradition.

Greg was a constant source of joy for his family—always keeping candy in the car, and never leaving for a road trip without drinks and snacks packed and ready. For many years, he hosted legendary Fourth of July fireworks showsupstate, entertaining family and friends with his signature flair.

He had a deep love for the beach, often sitting quietly for hours, soaking in the sun and peace, fully present in each moment. He was deeply committed to his granddaughters, always arriving with a thoughtful, personal gift just for them, his pride in them beaming from his smile.

Greg was a big supporter of the Norwalk High School Marching Band, cheering loudly and proudly—especially when his granddaughter played bass drum and quads. He was also passionate about track and field, a sport he supported from his sons’ youth: from the high school track meets with his eldest, to the collegiate stage with his youngest. That passion led him to become a certified official, and he was on the verge of officiating at the Olympic level—a testament to his dedication and excellence in all things.

Greg had a deep sense of style—always sharply dressed, often in monogrammed gear—and he made sure everyone in the family joined him. When he gave you clothes, you were trying them on immediately—no exceptions. His pride in appearance reflected his larger-than-life personality and appreciation for detail.

A devoted father and coach, Greg personally trained both sons in basketball from a young age, dedicating countless hours to drills, one-on-one sessions, and court-side encouragement. He went from cutting their hair as boys to proudly letting them return the favor as men—a quiet but meaningful gesture of love and trust.

Greg lived each day guided by the Four Cardinal Principles of Omega—Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift. Though he has now been called home to the Omega Chapter, his spirit lives on in the many lives he touched—with laughter, wisdom, and unshakable love.

He is survived by his wife, Ava; his devoted sons, Gregory (Desiree) and Justin; and his cherished granddaughters, Viviana, Ryella, and Amara. He also leaves behind his brother, Brian (Carol) of The Bronx, NY; sisters Sharon of Stratford and Lauren of Stamford; brother-in-law Arthur and Owen; and a host of beloved nieces and nephews: Marc, Keith, Jasmin, Curtis, Clarence, Jasahn, Arthur, Raquel, Jiovanna, Taylor, and Alex..

A wake will be held on Monday, September 8, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at Norwalk City Hall, 125 East Avenue, Norwalk, CT. The funeral service will follow at Norwalk City Hall on Tuesday, September 9, beginning at 11:00 AM. Burial will be private for close family and friends.

For traveling guests there will be a room block at the Norwalk Inn, 99 East Avenue, Norwalk (203) 838-2000.

Gregory D. Burnett Sr. lived a life of joy, purpose, generosity, and deep-rooted love. His laughter, leadership, and legacy will echo for generations—in the stories told, the lessons passed down, and the lives forever changed by his presence.