Leonard Thaddeus “Bubba” Burrell was born on August 23, 1939, to the late Joseph and Lucille Burrell.
“Bubba’s” community was the Historic Triangle neighborhood on Scotland St. He was a graduate of Bruton Heights, class of 1957, where he secured a football scholarship to attend Johnson C. Smith College. Bubba had other ideas for his more creative side and received a certificate as a tailor from Virginia State College. Upon completing that program, Bubba returned to the Williamsburg area, where he was employed by many retailers as a master tailor. He worked as a tailor until arthritis crippled his hands.
Bubba was a lifelong member of The Historic First Baptist Church of Williamsburg, having joined as a youth at the Church on Nassau Street location. As a music lover, Bubba joined the Jr. Choir and continued to sing to the glory of God as a member of the Men’s choir as an adult. He also served as a loyal member of the Men’s Fellowship and was a Trustee of the church.
His creativity was not limited to the work of a tailor and singing; Bubba was frequently found doing architectural design work for local businesses. In the community, he was a member of The Elks Lodge and an active Mason.
Bubba was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved nephew, Terrence Burrell, who was like a son and brother as well as his nephew; and his granddaughter, Candy Burrell. Leonard is survived by his only child, Paulett Burrell; his sister Mrs. Gertrude Burrell Brown; his grandson, T. J. Taliferio; a special cousin, Phinroy Day; a high school friend, Clarence Taylor; as well as a host of other cousins and friends.
