News Summary
Tony Burley, a devoted educator and passionate basketball official, has passed away at the age of 78. His legacy shaped the lives of countless students and athletes through his dedication to education and sports. With a career spanning decades, Burley made significant contributions in high schools, particularly in Grand Prairie, Texas, and was known as ‘Coach Burley’ to many former athletes. He later resided in Augusta, Georgia, where he continued to enjoy sports and family time. A celebration of his life is set to honor his lasting impact on the community.
Augusta, Georgia
Renowned Texas educator and passionate basketball official Tony Burley passed away at the age of 78 on June 29, 2025. He is remembered for his decades-long commitment to education and sports, particularly in high school basketball.
Burley had a rich history that began in New York, where he graduated from Cardinal Hayes High School. In 1964, he enlisted in the Air Force before pursuing higher education at Delaware State College following his military service. He later relocated to Dallas, Texas, to continue his education, ultimately earning a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Texas-Arlington and a Master of Education degree from Texas A&M-Commerce.
Beginning his career in education within the Grand Prairie Independent School District, Burley made significant contributions as an American History educator, football and track coach, and assistant principal. Throughout his tenure, many former athletes fondly referred to him as ‘Coach Burley’, often keeping in touch long after their time in school.
Burley’s passion for sports extended beyond coaching; he was an active official in various sports, including softball, baseball, volleyball, and basketball. His love for basketball was particularly strong, leading him to serve as a member, new recruit mentor, and secretary for the Dallas Basketball Officials Association. His dedication to officiating highlights his lifelong commitment to the sport and the development of young athletes.
Later in life, Burley relocated to Augusta, Georgia, where he continued to cherish time spent with family, traveling, and pursuing his interests in sports, particularly golf. He is survived by his daughter, Jenifer; son, Christian; sisters Loretta (Joe) Smith and Linda (Tom) Camerlengo; brother Joseph (Maria) Burley; and several nieces and nephews. Burley was preceded in death by his parents and nieces, Carmen and Charisse.
A celebration of life event is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at 3:30 PM at Elliott Sons Funeral Home, located at 2524 Lumpkin Road, Augusta, Georgia 30906. Friends, family, and community members are encouraged to join in honoring the lasting impact Burley had on countless lives through education and sports.
With a legacy rooted in education and athletics, Tony Burley’s contributions continue to inspire many, shaping the lives of students and athletes alike.
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Additional Resources
- Legacy: Clarence Burley Obituary
- Wikipedia: Augusta, Georgia
- WRDW: Aggravated Assault Case in Augusta
- Google Search: Tony Burley
- Augusta Press: Jail Incident Report
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- WRDW: Federal Gun Crimes in Augusta
- Google News: Augusta Georgia
