Mr. Frank William Burrell Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

****NOTE: Visitation & Funeral Service Times and Location Listed Below**** Mr. Frank William Burrell, also known to many as “Sunny Boy” departed this life peacefully at home on January 21, 2020 in Kalamazoo, MI. He was born January 10, 1932 in Mobile, AL, the son of Frank Walker and Adella Burrell. He attended elementary school and secondary school in mobile. After graduating high school he went on to serve as Paratrooper in the United States Army in Picayune, MS. He later was sent to Fort Knox in Kentucky where he served the rest of his service years. He met and married the late Cecilia Burrell in Kentucky, and to this union 4 children were born. Frank decided he wanted to move his family north, so he enlisted his mother to find a family home in Michigan where they resided for many years. He had an interest in boxing while he was in the service and decided to compete in boxing. In 1957, he won the title of Michigan Golden Gloves Champion. He loved the sport so that after winning the title, he became a trainer to many which included Floyd Mayweather, Sr., Tony Tucker, Leon and Michael Spinks. He also trained his son, Frank Burrell, III. He was a hard worker and was employed for many years with an automotive factory. In 1974, Frank united in marriage to the former Reha Mitchell and to this union one daughter was born. Frank loved the night life! He didn’t drink or smoke—he would order a Pepsi and dance all night! He strived for the better things in life and was an impeccable dresser. He was a family man who enjoyed being around his family at gatherings and especially spending time with his grandchildren. When his health declined he moved in with his daughter, ReElla and his grandchildren who all helped in his care during his final days. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. He is preceded death by his parents; his sister, Ayuk; and his brother, Ivan Burrell and his grandparents; 2 nieces, Catherine Franklin and Latycha Burrell and one nephew, Keith Mitze. He leaves to cherish his memories: his ex-wife/best friend, Reha Burrell of Kalamazoo; children: Ivan, Rodney, Barbett Denise, Frank William III, and Re’Ella Lee Burrell; grandchildren: Lyn and Derius Williams, Cinnamon Guyton, Bridget K. Burrell, Lil’ Rod Burrell, Keyonna Cruzado; Re’Niya, Takyi, and Re’Naysha Pearson; one sister, Lelia Mae Davis; and host of nieces, nephews, cousins, several grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren; other relatives and friends, Also, his special nephew, Jack Davis (“Butchy”).

Mr. Frank William Burrell

January 10, 1932 - January 21, 2020

Obituary & Service

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Mr. Frank William Burrell

January 10, 1932 - January 21, 2020

Obituary & Service

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