Donald L. Burson - Cremation Society of Virginia

Donald L. Burson

May 12, 1934 - November 10, 2022

Donald L. Burson, CDR USN RET weighed anchor for the last time on November 10, 2022 and set sail with the Four Winds for the Seven Seas. As he passed Cape Henry, he dipped his colors in salute to his family, former shipmates, and friends in thanks for a good tour of duty for 88 years. Donald was born May 12, 1934 in Houston, Texas to Cecil C. and Lula Bell Burson. He was predeceased by his brother James E. Burson.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Dorothy, son Curtis and wife Diana of Norfolk and son Wayne and wife Lynn of Edenton, NC and two granddaughters, Frances Burson and Rebecca Burson.

Upon graduation from the University of Texas in 1956, Donald entered Navy Officer Candidate School and was commissioned in December. During his twenty-seven years of naval service, he served in the USS Blue (DD 744), USS Direct (MSO 430), USS Aucilla (AO 56), USS Liberty (AGTR 5), USS Palm Beach (AGER 3), and USS Francis Marion (LPA 249). Donald was stationed in Bremerhaven, Germany; Gibraltar and London. He enjoyed being in the navy, going to sea and often said “sailors belong on ships and ships belonged at sea”.

Don a member of the Kempsville Lions Club for over thirty years.

In keeping with his wishes there will be no service.

In Lieu of Flowers memorial donations may be offered to the Kempsville Lions Club.

Please visit www.vacremationsociety.com to share memories and offer condolences.

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I served with Don on USS Blue from 1957 to 1959. Both of us were in Gunnery Department under the tutelage of Ltlg Harry Schrader later to become VADM. Enjoyed Don's friendship. I think he and I were the last guys standing from that period. Sorry to hear of his passing.

I served with Don Burson on board USS Aucilla a Fleet Oiler. I was newly commissioned and Gunnery Officer. I benefited from his careful guidance and great professionalism. I am saddened by his passing.

We will always remember PDG Don as a great Lion and a genuinely good person. So sorry for your loss Dottie.

Dorothy: I am saddened by Don's passing. A good neighbor and fellow shipmate. I know your grief. Take solace, in time it does fade but never goes away. What remains are the wonderful memories of your life together with Don. "Fair winds and a following sea". Skip Schweizer

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.