Leroy Burrows

Leroy Burrows, 82, passed away on October 24, 2021, in the comfort of his home with family nearby.

Born in Bellflower, California, Leroy grew up in Meridian, California. After marrying the love of his life, Patricia Mell, they relocated to Modesto, California with her two sons from a previous marriage, Jeff  and James Porter. A few years after moving to Modesto, Leroy and Pat had their only child together, daughter Kristina.

Having grown up in the country and participated in organizations like Future Farmers of America, it seemed natural that he would obtain a degree in entomology from U.C. Davis and go on to have a career in the agricultural field. Over the course of his career he worked businesses that included Hunt’s, Hoagland’s Transport Service, and later Stanislaus County.

Although Leroy was a committed employee with a strong work ethic, it was his family that represented his life’s work.  Nothing was more important to him than his family and this was evident in everything he did.  It was shown in the unconditional love and support he gave his three children.  It was also demonstrated in his commitment to caring for his sick wife, while battling his own chronic illnesses.

Leroy was a warm and caring person that supported many in their time of need by doing such things as visiting them in the hospital, leading them in prayer, and showing other acts of friendship. He was a dedicated Christian and a long term member of the First Baptist Church in Modesto (later CrossPoint Community Church).  A critical thinker, he sought to better understand what was going on in the world around him and was unafraid to question and reassess his positions as he gathered new information.  He was a passionate lover of books, music, movies, and television, and he enthusiastically discussed his favorites with those around him.

He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Pat Burrows; children Jeff Porter (Tanya), James Porter (Lucy), and Kristina Burrows (Steven); three grandchildren, John Porter, Grant Porter, and Lindsey Stone; and sisters Ann Burrows and Barbara Bullard (Ron).  He was predeceased by parents Edwin J. and Vivian Burrows and grandson Brandon Porter. 

A private family service is being planned. In lieu of flowers the family would deeply appreciate a personal note sharing a memory you have of Leroy. 
Please send your memories to us at 5224 21st Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95820.  

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.