Robert Ray Burlison of Columbia, Tennessee

June 14, 1947 - October 26, 2019

Mr. Robert Ray Burlison, age 72, a resident of Columbia, passed away peacefully Saturday, October 26, 2019 at his residence. Robert spent his last days surrounded by his many friends and a loving staff, who faithfully supported him.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, October 29, 2019 at 2PM at Heritage Funeral Home with Rick Points officiating. Burial will follow in Maury Memorial Gardens. A visitation will be held on Monday from 3-7PM and again on Tuesday from 1-2PM at the funeral home. Heritage Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Robert was born on June 14, 1947 in Centerville, TN and was the son of the late Robert Burlison and the late Mary Lou Fuller Burlison. In the later years of his life he loved to visit with his brother, Richard, and sister, Stella (who he called Baby), prior to their deaths. He missed them terribly and talked about seeing them again one day. Robert’s early life was hard, but that began changing in the 1970’s. For the last several years Robert found himself in a very loving home with a friend who loved him like a brother and many staff and friends who loved him as family. He was known for his feistiness and it was often said that he could “charm the pants off a snake.” He had a smile that would melt a heart of stone and light up the world. Robert loved toy trucks, toy cars and ink pens and would proudly show off his collection. He enjoyed going to McDonalds, going to the park, and watching Mickey Mouse cartoons. Robert also loved dogs, kids and babies.

He is survived by a very special friend, Lee Culp; special friends: Deshanna Gonzalez, Catherine Hawkins, Keri Scales, Melody Sharpe, Katie Esparza, Ashley Mosley, Cheryl Cosby, Cadetra Jefferson, Jennifer Vargas, and Dotri Shaw. He is also survived by a host of other staff and friends who have previously loved and supported him.

Pallbearers will be: Denarius Stinson, Clarence Scales, Tracy Blocker, Jonathan Mosley, John Lee Scales, and Cornell Randle.

A very special thank you is extended to the staff of Independent Opportunities and CARIS Healthcare for their care for Robert.