Glenn Emmitt Burleson, 85, of Brownwood, Texas, passed away peacefully at home on December 3, 2025. He was born on April 17, 1940, to Harold M. and Nettie C. Burleson.
Glenn was raised in Richland Springs, Texas, where he attended school and graduated in 1958. During his senior year, he was a member of the 440-relay track team that advanced to the state meet in Austin and proudly brought home first place—an achievement he treasured throughout his life. He also played football for the Richland Springs Coyotes, a team he continued to support and follow for many years.
Following graduation, Glenn briefly attended Howard Payne University, where he met Parka Bryant. They married in 1960 and welcomed two daughters during their seven years together. After holding various jobs across Texas and Louisiana, Glenn eventually moved to Long Beach, California. There he met Kathleen Boling, whom he married in 1971. Together they had one daughter and one son, and they shared 18 years of marriage.
Glenn later secured a position with Certified Grocers Warehouse in Northern California. While working there, he met Donna D’Ottavio. After a loving relationship and an engagement of 11 years, they married in 2002 and blended their families into one.
Family was at the center of Glenn’s life. He especially enjoyed camping, fishing, and watching sports—with a special fondness for cheering on the Richland Springs Coyotes.
Glenn is preceded in death by his parents; his baby brother, Billy Roy; his previous spouses, Parka Willis and Kathleen Clark; and stepdaughter Rochelle Burleson.
He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Donna Burleson; daughters Betty Bishop (Steven) and Carol Bryant (Bill); son Joseph Glenn Burleson (Cara); and stepchildren Steve Sosner (April), Pearl Taylor, Nellie Cramer, and Tommy Cramer. He is also survived by numerous grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, as well as two brothers, H.M. Burleson (Ashley) and Robert Burleson.
Visitation will be held Sunday, December 7, 2025, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Blaylock Funeral Home, Brownwood, Texas.
Graveside services will be at 1:00 p.m., Monday, December 8, 2025, at the Richland Springs Cemetery in Richland Springs, Texas.
Blaylock Funeral Home of Brownwood is in charge of arrangements.
