Opal Lee Burris

Opal was a graduate of the Algood High School Class of 1948. She served as Putnam County Register of Deeds from 1986 until her retirement in 2006. Although a successful politician, she was known as someone who never played politics. She proudly served the people of Putnam County with a strong work ethic, integrity, grace, commitment, and a humble spirit.

A skilled speller, she chaired the old-fashioned Spelling Bee at Smith Chapel for more than 50 years and enjoyed encouraging spellers of all ages to come for fun and fellowship. Known throughout Putnam County for her famous pies and pound cakes, Opal loved to cook for family, friends, and courthouse gatherings. Growing up in a family that loved and played music, Opal enjoyed listening to good country music, two stepping, and playing the guitar. She enjoyed feeding and watching the birds, especially hummingbirds, going to the creek searching for wildflowers, and being with her family.

Treasured by her children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, Opal was beloved as the matriarch of the family. She was a woman of quiet strength and an encourager, who truly cared for others. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by five sisters and four brothers; her husband, Hershel “Shorty” Burris; and her son, Harold Lee Burris.

She is survived by her daughter, Renee; grandson Ethan and his wife, Allie; and great grandsons Christopher Lachlan Burris and Tucker Lee Burris. She was loved as a mother figure by many, especially Kelly Thompson Porch.

Services will be held at Hooper and Huddleston Funeral Home in Cookeville. Visitation will be held Monday, September 8, 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. The funeral service will be on Tuesday, September 9, at 11 a.m. Brother David Flatt of Whitson Church of Christ, where Opal was a member, will officiate the service. Burial will be at Smith Chapel Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to Smith Chapel Cemetery c/o Kristi Langford, 7690 Smith Chapel Rd, Cookeville, TN 38501

Hooper Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111. You may share your thoughts and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com.