2015 Krewe of Lul Grand Marshal

Hurschel Burleigh

At 90 years old, the Krewe of Lul’s grand marshal can be hard to catch up with. Between going to the fitness center three times a week, volunteering within the community and continuing his late wife’s business, Hurschel Burleigh doesn’t have much time to talk about his role in Mardi Gras.

“I feel so honored to be chosen to be grand marshal…I really appreciate them thinking that much of me to bestow that upon me,” he said.

Burleigh began his professional life near Sunset, Louisiana. As a young man, he attempted to enlist in the military in 1942 to help with the war effort, but was ultimately rejected due to a high instep. He instead began working on an air base near Lake Charles.

Burleigh originally came to Luling from De Soto, Ark., in 1953. He was working in the restaurant industry, helping his father-in-law run a successful business, but found that it left him with little time to be a father. As luck would have it, Lion Oil, now Monsanto, was opening a new plant and needed workers. Burleigh came to Luling and never looked back.

Since his retirement as a shift supervisor at Monsanto in 1986, Burleigh has been a prolific contributor to the community. In addition to being lector at the Holy Family Catholic Church, Burleigh also volunteers with the Knights of Columbus. In addition to his membership in council 2409, he also served as district deputy when council 9933 was formed.

“I’m a busy person—I’m not a sit down guy, I’m not a TV guy, I’m not a computer guy,” Burleigh said.

As the father of five, Burleigh said much of his experience with the Krewe of Lul—which he has viewed since he first moved to St. Charles Parish in 1953—included the marching bands and parade floats of his children. Today, only one of his children lives in the parish, with the others are split between Georgia, Mississippi and Dallas.

In addition to his children, Burleigh has 14 grandchildren.He and his wife Ruby were married for more than 54 years, until Ruby’s death 16 years ago. At that time, Ruby had been an Avon representative for 17 years. After her death, Burleigh picked up the torch.

“I didn’t have the heart to give it up, so I’m still doing it,” Burleigh said.

Today, Burleigh continues moving and said he’s excited to lead the parade that has been a long-time part of his community.

“I hope I’m able to do it justice,” Burleigh said.

 

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