James Leon Burrow

James Leon Burrow, 71, of Swansboro, North Carolina, passed away on Friday, July 18, 2025, at Carteret Health Care with his family by his side.

A celebration of life service will take place in Leon's honor at 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 26th, at the Carteret County Speedway, officiated by Bob Lowery.

James, known to all as Leon, was born on March 23, 1954, in Winston-Salem, NC, to the late James Ray Burrow and Margaret Bowden Burrow. Dedicated to his country he proudly served in the Army Reserves and had a fulfilling career as a truck driver with Salem Carries for over 20 years.

Leon was well known in the racing community as the flagman at Carteret County Motor Speedway, where his dedication and enthusiasm were evident to all. His journey in racing began at 311 Speedway in Pine Hall, NC, where he also served as a flagman. It can easily be said Leon was happiest when at the speedway enjoying the thrill of the races and enthusiasm of the crowd.

Taking great pride in his appearance, Leon always maintained a neat and clean look. Known for his strong will and determination, Leon had a compassionate heart and a dry sense of humor that endeared him to all who crossed his path.

When not at the speedway, Leon enjoyed casting his line always ready for the next big catch. He genuinely appreciated a good meal and loved to eat, especially hot dogs. A master in the kitchen made delicious meals with homemade potato salad being his signature dish.

Those remaining to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Patty Burrow; sons, Shawn Ray Burrow and Justin Ingold (Jewell), all of Walnut Cove, NC; daughter, Sonia Price (Russell) of Thomasville, NC; brothers, Robert Delan Burrow (Nanette) of Clemmons, NC and Tommy Burrow (Wanda Jane) of King, NC; grandchildren, Audrey Leigh Burrow, Courtney Dawkins (Johnny), Jackson Davis (Megan), Jaryd Galloway, Dezmond Galloway, and Gabriel Ingold; great-grandchildren, Aiden Dawkins, Knox Dawkins, Quinn Dawkins, and Hazeleigh Dawkins; and special friend, Wavern Dye.

In addition to his parents, Leon was preceded in death by his son, Kevin Leon Burrow; brother, Timothy Burrow; and granddaughter, Breanna Dawn Burrow.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made in Leon’s memory to Honor Bridge, 7000 Millhouse Rd., Chapel Hill, NC 27516 or Second Blessings Thrift Store, 5178 US-70, Morehead City, NC 28557.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.