Jimmy Lowell Burleson
June 15th 1937- October 10th 2020
Winfield is mourning the loss of one of its leading citizens. Mr. Jimmy Lowell Burleson, age 83, passed away peacefully at his home Saturday, October 10th, 2020. Jimmy was respected and deeply loved by his family and he led a life dedicated to his Savior, his family, and his community.
Jimmy was born on June 15th, 1937 in Winfield, son of Erin Couch Burleson and James Dalton “Shorty” Burleson. He graduated from Winfield High School in 1955 where he excelled in football, basketball, and baseball. After graduating from Florence State College with a degree in Business Administration in 1960, he joined his parents at Burleson Motors. He soon proved to be an adept businessman and salesman. As owner of Burleson Motors, he successfully added franchises to the business, including GMC, Chrysler, Plymouth, Dodge, Ford, and Mercury. On several occasions, he was honored with national sales awards.
Jimmy felt a responsibility, which he enjoyed, to actively support the community. He served on the board of directors at State Bank and Trust since 1982, President of the Chamber of Commerce, Chairman of the Park and Recreation board, the Alabama National Guard, and he was inducted into the Marion County Sports Hall of Fame among several other roles. He was an active member of Winfield First Baptist Church. Jimmy decided to sell Burleson Motors in 2000; leaving the automotive business after over 40 years. He remained active playing golf, maintaining several rental properties, and enjoying life with his family and friends.
Jimmy was a quiet person by nature, but his actions spoke volumes. When he spoke, it was worth listening to. He was a fervent protector and supporter of his family and friends. Marilyn, his wife of 61 years was the love of his life. His greatest accomplishment was his family and the love and pride he had for his children, grandkids, and great grandkids who all called him “Daddy Jim”. Whenever the family was in need, he was there to fill in the gaps and provide. He loved sports and was an active supporter of the University of Alabama and the Winfield Pirates. His sweet and kind demeanor was evident to all and helped him live life to the fullest.
He was preceded in death by his parents J.D. “Shorty” Burleson and Erin Couch Burleson and sister-in-law, Martha Branyon. He is survived by his wife Marilyn Branyon Burleson; children Teresa (Tim) Morrison and Tom (Cindy) Burleson; five grandchildren Haley (Nigel) Guntharp, Curt Howell, Hannah Howell, Thomas Burleson and Jessica (Thomas) Whatley; and three great grandchildren Isabella Penney, Burleson (Bo) Guntharp, and Berkley Guntharp.
Funeral Service will be held Wednesday, October 14th at 2:00 PM, at the Winfield First Baptist Church. The visitation will be held from 12:00 until 2:00 PM before the service at Winfield First Baptist Church. Bowen Funeral Home of Winfield, directing. Memorials may be made to the Winfield First Baptist Church building fund in lieu of flowers.
