Mary Burse

Mary Burse, 68, passed away on Friday, April 17, 2026. A Celebration of Life Service will be held Saturday, April 25, 2026 at Brownfield Church of Christ. Interment will follow at Mt. Zion Cemetery under the direction of Griffin Mortuary. Visitations will be held Friday, April 24, 2026 from 4 pm to 6 pm at Griffin Mortuary. 

Mary Burse, born February 7, 1958, in Brownfield, Texas, to Tommie Jean Burse and Dorsie Charles Burse, Sr., lived a life marked by strength, loyalty, and unmistakable presence. A proud graduate of Brownfield High School’s Class of 1976, Mary went on to build a career rooted in service and justice. She worked for the Police Department, the WTISF, and later became a paralegal, earning her associate degree and using her skills to advocate for others.Mary’s life took her to San Diego, California, and Savannah, Georgia, before she returned home to Texas. No matter where she lived, she carried her love for family, music, and travel with her. She was unapologetically herself—bold, outspoken, unforgettable—and she touched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her. Whether vibing to Tupac or Michael Jackson, sharing stories, or offering her honest perspective, Mary made her presence felt. 

She is preceded in death by her mother, Tommie Jean Burse; her father, Dorsie Charles Burse, Sr.; her brother, Micheal Jones Burse; and her sister, Doris Jean Burse-Ward. 

Mary leaves behind a legacy of love through her children, LaToshia L. Burse, Erica R. Johnson, and Ashley L. Johnson; her sisters and sisters‑in‑law Debbie Romero Burse and Janice Lacy; her brothers Dewayne Burse and Dorsie Charles Burse, Jr.; and her grandchildren Armani R. Burse, Auburnay M. Burse, and Jaire Johnson. She is also cherished by six nieces, twelve nephews, and a host of extended family and friends who will forever hold her memory close.