Burlon Lester Crocker, Sr.

With grateful hearts and deep sorrow, we celebrate the life of Burlon Lester Crocker, Sr., who passed away peacefully on June 10, 2026, at the age of 85. A devoted Christian, proud United States Army veteran, loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and faithful friend, Burlon lived a life defined by service, faith, leadership, and love for others.

Born on January 10, 1941, to Robert Lester Crocker and Grace Smith Crocker, Burlon grew up in the Mississippi Delta and graduated from Indianola High School in 1958. He attended Mississippi State University, where he was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity, and later attended Delta State University.

In 1961, Burlon entered the United States Army and was stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas, before deploying to Vietnam in 1963. During his military service, he worked as a draftsman and was awarded the Joint Service Commendation Medal for meritorious service. He considered serving his country one of the greatest honors of his life and remained deeply proud of his military service.

A man of deep and abiding faith, Burlon faithfully served the Lord throughout his life. As a deacon and active member of his church, he exemplified Christ’s love through humble leadership, compassionate service, and a willingness to help others whenever and wherever he could. His faith was not merely something he professed—it was evident in the way he lived, loved, and cared for those around him every day.

Family was among the greatest blessings of Burlon’s life. He cherished every moment spent with his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and loved ones. Whether gathered around a dinner table, sitting on a porch, attending a ballgame, or enjoying the outdoors, he had a remarkable gift for making people feel valued, welcomed, and loved.

After returning home from military service, Burlon devoted himself to his family, career, church, and community. He was the father of two children, Burlon Lester Crocker, Jr. and Felicia Crocker Suddoth, whom he shared with his former wife, Linda Grozinger Crocker. Burlon was instrumental in helping establish Youth Incorporated in Clarksdale, Mississippi, and served as its president for many years. Through countless hours coaching basketball, softball, and baseball, he positively influenced generations of young people through his leadership, encouragement, and example.

Professionally, Burlon enjoyed a successful career in marketing with Mississippi Valley Gas, later known as Atmos Energy. Following retirement, he worked with the Mississippi Home Builders Association, where he helped develop the Certified Builder Program and served on the board of the National Association of Home Builders before permanently retiring.

An avid outdoorsman, Burlon found peace and joy in God’s creation. He loved deer hunting and spent countless hours in the woods appreciating the beauty of nature. He was also a devoted supporter of Mississippi State athletics and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on the Bulldogs. As a longtime member and former president of the Coldwater Hunting Club, he built lasting friendships and created memories that will be treasured for generations.

Known for his gift of storytelling, Burlon never met a stranger. He could captivate any audience with his wit, wisdom, humor, and unforgettable tales. His ability to connect with people made him a beloved friend and mentor to many. He was also known as “The Voice of the Colts” at Lee Academy, where he provided radio broadcasts for football games and served as the announcer for basketball games.

More than any title he held, Burlon was known for his willingness to help others. His life was a testament to faithfulness, generosity, perseverance, and grace. Through his example, countless lives were touched and forever changed.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Lester Crocker and Grace Smith Crocker, and his sister, Charlotte Crocker Brown.

He is survived by his son, Burlon Lester (Ashley) Crocker, Jr.; his daughter, Felicia Crocker (Jack) Suddoth; his sisters, Betty Crocker Abdo and Glenda Crocker (George) Thomas; his grandchildren, Sam Crocker, Max Crocker, Christine (Maddox) Hargett, and John Suddoth; his great-grandchildren, Daisy Crocker, Ophelia Crocker, Anora Crocker, Arthur Crocker, and Elliott Hargett; along with numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends.

While his family grieves his loss, they rejoice in the promise of eternal life and find comfort in knowing that he has entered into the presence of his Savior. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy lives on through the family he cherished, the community he served, and the countless lives he touched.

As we mourn his passing, we also rejoice in the promise of eternal life and take comfort in knowing that he has heard the words:

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

His memory will forever be a blessing, and his example will continue to guide and inspire all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Doty Springs Cemetery, 2491 Attala Road 5205, Ethel, Mississippi 39067.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Doty Springs Baptist Church. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Doty Springs Baptist Church Cemetery.