Bret William Burleson

On the morning of May 27th, 2025, Bret passed away unexpectedly from natural causes. Bret, age 51, was born in Annapolis, MD, to Sarah Burleson. Though his homestead was in Spring Lake, NC, Bret traveled extensively doing the work he loved. His impact on the drilling community was profound, and he received much recognition as a beloved mentor.

He is survived by his loving wife of 25 years, Theresa Burleson, their four children: Kristen, Brandon, Jenna, and Ryan Burleson, his three grandsons: Reid, Wesley, and Ramsey, his three sisters: Crystal Jones, Cheryl Miller, and Melissa Godwin, and his loving aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Bret is preceded in death by his grandparents Mary (Dolly) and Alberto (Poncho) Saenz; his mother Sarah Burleson, and brother Alfred (Al) Laughery IV.

A celebration of life will be held on June 7th, 2025, from 2pm-5pm at Calvert Marine Museum in Solomons, MD. Memorial contributions in Bret’s honor may be sent to: 27 Hanson Court, Bunnlevel, NC 28323.