Joshua "Cotton Top" Burkhart

Joshua “Cotton Top” Burkhart, age 23, of McKee, Kentucky passed away on Thursday, July 2, 2026. He leaves behind his mother, Jessica Byrd Allen and stepfather, Travis “Tadpole” Allen; his girlfriend, Hannah Wagers; two siblings, Chelsea Burkhart, J.D. Burkhart & Beanie Brock, all of McKee, KY; three stepbrothers, Trent Hall, Tyler Allen, Trevor Allen; three nephews, Noah Forrest, Ryder Lee Burkhart, Raiden Burkhart; his grandmother, Agnus Bray; plus a host of other family and friends to cherish his memory. He was preceded in death by his father, Curtis Burkhart; his sister, Clarissa Burkhart; his grandmother, Bernice Anderson; his grandfather, Daniel Byrd; and by his uncle, Joshua Byrd. Cotton will be remembered as a hardworking, kindhearted man whose greatest joy came from spending time with the people he loved. His generous spirit, infectious smile, and willingness to lend a helping hand left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Cotton worked as a Raw Resin Technician for ABC Automotive, where he took pride in his work and was respected for his dedication and strong work ethic. Outside of work, he truly came alive in the outdoors. Whether he was riding his Harley, dirt bikes, four-wheelers, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, Cotton found happiness in life's simple adventures. He also enjoyed working with his hands, especially tinkering on his motorcycles and fixing just about anything that needed attention. Family meant everything to Cotton. He treasured every opportunity to spend time with his loved ones, especially his nephews, who held a special place in his heart. He shared a deep and loving relationship with his girlfriend, Hannah, and cherished the life they were building together. Cotton had a remarkable way of making everyone feel welcome and cared for, never meeting a stranger and treating others with kindness, compassion, and respect. Above all, Cotton was a man of faith. He found comfort and guidance in reading his Bible, and his quiet faith was reflected in the way he lived each day—with love, humility, and a caring heart. Cotton Top’s legacy will live on through the countless memories he created with family and friends, the kindness he freely shared, and the love he gave so generously. Though he will be deeply missed, those who knew and loved him will forever cherish the example of a life lived with faith, adventure, and an unwavering love for others. A funeral honoring Joshua “Cotton Top” Burkhart will be held on Monday, July 6, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at Ell’s Branch Baptist Church located at 1280 Ell's Branch Road in Manchester, Kentucky with Josh Morgan, David Davidson and Harold Byrd officiating. Interment will follow at The Cotton Top Family Cemetery in Tyner, Kentucky. The family will receive friends on Sunday, July 5, 2026 beginning at 6:00 p.m., also at the church. Joshua’s friends will serve as pallbearers. The family has entrusted House-Rawlings Funeral Home with the arrangements.

Joshua "Cotton Top" Burkhart

June 24, 2003 - July 2, 2026