Barbara Burlsworth, the mother of former Razorback and Harrison native Brandon Burlsworth, has passed away at the age of 84.
The Brandon Burlsworth Foundation, which is run by the Burlsworth family, announced Barbara’s passing on social media.
Brandon was a former Razorback football player who is regarded in sports history as one of the greatest to ever play the game. He overcame significant challenges, starting his career as a walk-on for the Razorbacks and eventually becoming an All-American.
After his career with the Razorbacks from 1994 to 1998, he was invited to the NFL Combine, where he showcased his talent by recording a 4.88-second 40-yard dash, leading all linemen. He was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the third round, demonstrating that anything is possible with focus and determination.
Soon after, tragedy struck the small community of Harrison. Just 11 days after the NFL draft, on April 28, 1999, Brandon was involved in a car crash while traveling home from the University of Arkansas to attend church with his mom. He died at the age of 22, only 15 minutes from home.
Despite his untimely passing, Brandon’s influence continues. In his honor, his family established the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation to support the physical and spiritual needs of children, especially those with limited opportunities.
His legacy remains significant in his community and among those he encountered in life.
His story was immortalized in the 2016 feature film “Greater.”
