Barbara Burleson

Barbara Hammer Burleson, beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away on October 31, 2024, in Kingsville, Texas, at the age of 94. Born on May 25, 1930, in Houston, Texas, Barbara graduated from high school early and began working as a secretary. At just 16 years old, she met and married Haze Burleson, the love of her life. Together, they built a family and a successful business in the oilfield service industry.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Solon Haze Burleson, her parents Thomas Riley and Irma Irene Hammer, her sisters Dorothy Janet Miller and Irma Jane Kelley, and a brother David Riley Hammer.

After Haze’s passing in 1981, Barbara focused on her family, travel, and volunteer work. She is survived by one brother, John Charles Hammer (Barbara) and her five children: Dennis (Terri), Glenn (Wanda), Rick (Barbara), Andy (Sara), and her daughter Janelle (Jimmy). She was a proud grandmother to 14 grandchildren and cherished great-grandmother to 18 great-grandchildren. Nana gave every grandchild their first bath and gave a unique nickname to each grandchild and great-grandchild. She was a steady force of wisdom, spirituality, and love for her family.

Barbara had a passion for God, music, travel, and lifelong learning. She was known for her dedication to service, managing accounting for her church and the Assistance League of San Antonio. Her passion for service led her to volunteer extensively, ensuring that many children in need received support through the Assistance League of San Antonio. She played organ, piano, and handbells and sang in the choirs of her churches through the years.

Barbara was an accomplished seamstress, crafting prom and wedding dresses for her grandchildren. As a talented cook, she delighted in preparing meals for her large family. Many wonderful memories were made in her kitchen and she taught multiple generations treasured recipes including chicken and dumplings and shortbread cookies. Her adventurous spirit took her around the globe, visiting countries including China, Egypt, Italy, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Australia, Japan, and the UK. Notably, she celebrated her 80th birthday in Iceland, took a cruise to Panama at the age of 88, and at 92, took a memorable Alaskan Disney cruise with two great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, November 10, 2024, at 2 PM at San Pedro Presbyterian Church in San Antonio, Texas. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Assistance League of San Antonio, honoring Barbara’s legacy of kindness and generosity.