Joshua Lee Burleson, a West Virginia native, passed away unexpectedly on April 15, 2023 in Beijing, China. Family and friends from across the globe mourn his loss and celebrate his amazing life that was cut short too soon.
Josh leaves a legacy of impact. Everyone who interacted with Josh was changed for the better. Josh, 33, is survived by his wife, Cindy Burleson; parents, Al and Mary Burleson; dogs, Avon and Kima; grandfather, Charles Huey Landry, siblings Charles Michael Burleson and Whitney Lynn Burleson; in-laws, Patricia and Paul Le; siblings-in-law, Steven and Nicole Le, and nephew Henry Le.
Josh was preceded in death by his grandparents, William Albert Burleson, Mary Theresa Landry, Paul Leo Dailey Sr., Rosemary Eleanor Dailey and his beloved pets, Bagheera and Lupe.
Josh cared so deeply about the people in his life. Memories of Josh are marked by his consistent selflessness and support in all things, from the seemingly small (like how he always made sure his wife Cindy got to hear “Return of the Mack” at any bar she went to) to showing up and being there for his family and friends during their times of need, whether they asked or not. His love for Cindy is immeasurable; it was a privilege for anyone to bear witness to part of their story and glimpse what unconditional love could be.
A proud graduate of West Virginia University, the Mountaineers and the Tennessee Titans will forever be Josh’s teams. He was a fervent fan, sporting team gear more often than not. He was competitive but always cared more about it being a really good game than winning. Even beyond sports, Josh brought this same energy to board games, video games and Dungeons and Dragons.
If Josh wasn’t watching or playing a game, you could find him outside soaking up the sunshine or taking a walk with his dogs. Josh loved animals of all kinds and was an ardent supporter of animal rescues. Every trip Josh took included a visit to some sort of animal rescue and he and Cindy created a home in which all animals are welcomed and showered with love. Nothing set his mind at ease quite like spending time with Kima, Avon, Bagheera and Lupe.
Josh was patriotic to his core and proud to be an American, especially while living overseas. He rooted for the U.S. teams in every world competition, even bringing his support to France for the Women’s World Cup.
Josh served as president of Theta Chi Alpha Kappa chapter at WVU. His leadership and mentorship fostered and strengthened the lifelong bond of brotherhood. At Theta Chi and in so many areas of his life, Josh was the playmaker, never seeking the spotlight but always making moves and plans that helped others shine.
He loved wings slathered in buffalo sauce, hard-shell tacos, Miller Lite and a good tequila. He was hilarious, often sarcastic and his commentary while watching any of “The Bachelor” franchise shows was unmatched. Josh was creative and had a talent for executing an idea in unexpected ways, often building things by hand or working for months to see an idea to fruition, like the time he cultivated a pumpkin patch in his backyard to make Cindy’s dream Halloween decorations a reality for her favorite holiday.
Josh was the greatest friend, sweetest son and most incredible husband. He will be so missed.
A drop-by visitation will be held at Murphy Funeral Home 4510 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22203 from 5-7 p.m. on May 4. The graveside service will be held at Ivy Hill Cemetery 2823 King St., Alexandria, VA 22302 at 1 p.m. on May 5. A celebration of life will follow the service at Rock It Grill 1319 King St., Alexandria, VA 22314.
A celebration of life will also be held in Josh’s hometown at Marilla Recreation Center 799 East Brockway Ave., Morgantown from 6-9:30 p.m. on May 8. The family asks that attendees honor Josh’s lifelong love for West Virginia University by wearing WVU gear or casual clothing featuring blue and old gold.
In lieu of flowers, Josh’s family asks that his community continue Josh’s support of the Humane Rescue Alliance (HumaneRescueAlliance.org) by donating in his memory.
