Clarence "Tony" Burley

Tony graduated from Cardinal Hayes High School and later joined the Air Force in 1964. After his years of service, he attended Delaware State College and eventually relocated to Dallas, TX. He graduated from the University of Texas-Arlington (BS) and Texas A&M-Commerce (MEd).

Tony began a lengthy career in education in the Grand Prairie Independent School District serving as an American History educator, football and track coach as well as an assistant principal. Many of his former athletes kept in touch with ‘Coach Burley’ throughout the years.

Outside of work, Tony loved family, traveling, sports, and was an avid golfer. He worked year-round as a softball, baseball, volleyball, and basketball official for local schools. Of these, basketball was his passion. He served as a member, new recruit mentor, and secretary of the Dallas Basketball Officials Association.

After a lengthy residence in Texas, Tony relocated to Augusta, GA where he resided with family until his passing at age 78 on June 29, 2025.

Tony was preceded in death by his parents and nieces, Carmen and Charisse.

He leaves to cherish his life: daughter, Jenifer and son, Christian; sisters, Loretta (Joe) Smith and Linda (Tom) Camerlengo; brother, Joseph (Maria) Burley; nieces: Cherae, Lisa, and Ilene; nephews: Markeith, Richmond, Sean, Christopher, and Thomas and a host of relatives and friends.

A celebration of life for Clarence will be held Wednesday, July 2, 2025 at 3:30 PM at Elliott Sons Funeral Home, 2524 Lumpkin Road, Augusta, Georgia 30906.