Marty Burlsworth stands as a beacon of dedication, faith, and resilience in Arkansas. As Chairman and CEO of the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation, he has transformed personal tragedy into a powerful force for good since 1999. In 2025, at age 65, Marty Burlsworth continues to expand programs that support the physical and spiritual needs of children, especially those with limited opportunities.
Living in Harrison with wife Vickie and their family, he leads initiatives like football camps, eye care programs, and the prestigious Burlsworth Trophy. The foundation’s motto, “Do it the Burls Way”, coined by former coach Houston Nutt, embodies integrity and hard work.
Marty Burlsworth honors his younger brother Brandon, the greatest walk-on player in college football history, who tragically died in 1999 after being drafted by the Indianapolis Colts. Through scholarships, character awards, and community outreach in the Ozarks, Marty Burlsworth ensures Brandon’s story inspires generations.
Marty Burlsworth grew up in Harrison, stepping into a fatherly role for Brandon due to family challenges. Their mother Barbara Burlsworth instilled strong values. After Brandon’s death, Marty and Vickie founded the organization to fulfill his dreams of helping underprivileged youth.
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Marty Leo Burlsworth |
| Date of Birth | November 13, 1960 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 65 years old |
| Birthplace | Harrison, Arkansas, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Chairman/CEO of Brandon Burlsworth Foundation, Public Speaker |
| Family | Wife: Vickie Burlsworth (Executive Director); Three sons, two daughters-in-law, three grandchildren; Mother: Barbara Burlsworth; Late Brother: Brandon Burlsworth |
| Career Highlights | Founded Brandon Burlsworth Foundation in 1999; Oversees Burlsworth Trophy (2025 winner: Drew Mestemaker); Produced film Greater (2016); Motivational speaker promoting character and sportsmanship |
Marty Burlsworth’s Early Life in Harrison Arkansas
Marty Burlsworth was born and raised in Harrison, a small town in the heart of the Ozarks. As the oldest of three sons to Leo and Barbara Burlsworth, he experienced a modest upbringing marked by hard work and family bonds. His father worked as a musician, but challenges led to instability, placing Marty in a protective role early on.
Growing up in Harrison, Marty developed a strong sense of community and faith. He attended local schools and became deeply involved in church activities. These formative years in Arkansas shaped his values of perseverance and integrity.
Marty Burlsworth often recalls how Harrison fostered close-knit relationships. He watched his younger brother Brandon grow from a chubby kid with big dreams into an athletic standout at Harrison High School. Marty encouraged Brandon’s passion for Razorback football, frequently driving him to practices and games.
This foundation in Harrison prepared Marty for leadership. After marrying Vickie, he built a stable home while supporting the Burlsworth family.
The Tragic Loss of Brandon Burlsworth in 1999
Brandon Burlsworth, the beloved younger brother of Marty Burlsworth, achieved extraordinary success as a walk-on at the University of Arkansas. Starting without a scholarship, he earned a scholarship, became an All-American offensive lineman wearing number 77, and was the first Arkansas Razorback football player to complete his master’s degree before his final game.
In 1999, just eleven days after being drafted by the Indianapolis Colts, Brandon was killed in a car accident on April 28. He was returning to Harrison from Fayetteville. The loss devastated the Burlsworth family, especially Marty, who had been like a father figure.
Marty Burlsworth channeled grief into purpose. Along with Vickie and Barbara Burlsworth, he established the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation that fall to honor Brandon’s vision of helping kids attend games and camps.
The tragedy strengthened Marty’s resolve to live “Do it the Burls Way”—with unwavering work ethic and faith.
Founding the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation
Marty Burlsworth co-founded the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation in 1999 with Vickie to perpetuate Brandon’s legacy. The Christian organization focuses on supporting underprivileged children through physical and spiritual development.
Key programs include the Burls Kids Program, providing tickets to Razorbacks home football games and Colts matches. Children receive replica glasses and jerseys, echoing Brandon’s style.
The Eyes of a Champion Program offers free eye exams and glasses, inspired by Brandon’s thick frames. Football camps in Harrison and Little Rock teach skills and life lessons, often featuring former Razorbacks.
Marty and Vickie lead daily operations from Harrison, ensuring growth. In 2025, expansions reached more children across Arkansas.
The Burlsworth Trophy and National Recognition
The Burlsworth Trophy, created in 2010, honors the outstanding college football player who started as a walk-on. Marty Burlsworth presents it annually, celebrating Burlsworth character—perseverance and character and sportsmanship.
In 2025, University of North Texas quarterback Drew Mestemaker won the award at a ceremony in Bentonville. Marty highlighted parallels to Brandon’s journey.
Previous winners include Baker Mayfield. The trophy elevates the foundation’s profile, inspiring nominations nationwide.
Marty Burlsworth uses the event to promote Brandon Burlsworth story, emphasizing doing things right even unseen.
Marty Burlsworth’s Role in the Movie Greater
The 2016 film Greater, based on the book about Brandon, features Marty Burlsworth prominently. Neal McDonough portrayed Marty as a supportive brother grappling with faith after the loss.
Marty contributed to production, including a cameo. The movie depicts Brandon’s rise from Harrison High School walk-on to Razorback star under coach Houston Nutt.
Greater boosted foundation awareness, drawing donations and participants. Marty Burlsworth speaks about its impact in preserving Brandon’s message.
Marty Burlsworth’s Physical Appearance
Marty Burlsworth maintains a fit, approachable presence reflecting his active lifestyle and community involvement.
| Attribute | Details |
| Height | Approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) |
| Weight | Around 180-190 lbs (82-86 kg) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Graying brown |
| Body Measurements | Average build, athletic from family involvement |
Marty’s warm demeanor and genuine smile make him relatable at events.
Programs and Impact of Brandon Burlsworth Foundation
The Brandon Burlsworth Foundation runs diverse initiatives under Marty Burlsworth’s guidance.
- Burls Kids Program: Takes children to games, providing jerseys and experiences.
- Eyes of a Champion: Partners for vision care.
- Football Camps: Annual in Harrison and beyond.
- Burlsworth Character Award: High school honor for integrity.
- Scholarships: Support academic achievers.
In 2025, programs expanded, serving thousands in Arkansas and nationally.
Marty ensures alignment with Brandon’s values.
Marty Burlsworth as a Motivational Speaker
Marty Burlsworth travels as a speaker, sharing Brandon’s story of faith and determination. He addresses schools, churches, and events, emphasizing “Do it the Burls Way”.
Audiences connect with tales from Harrison to Fayetteville. Marty inspires youth to overcome odds.
The Burlsworth Family Legacy in Arkansas
The Burlsworth family remains rooted in Harrison. Barbara Burlsworth is an honorary figure. Marty and Vickie raise their three sons with similar principles.
Community ties in the Ozarks sustain efforts. Events honor junior athletes and promote ** Razorback** spirit.
Marty Burlsworth on Social Media
The foundation maintains an active presence; Marty Burlsworth appears in posts.
| Platform | Username/Handle | Followers (approx. 2025) | Profile Link |
| BrandonBurlsworthFoundation | 23,000+ | facebook.com/BrandonBurlsworthFoundation | |
| Official Website | N/A | N/A | brandonburlsworth.org |
Updates feature Marty at ceremonies and camps.
Fun Facts about Marty Burlsworth
Often mistaken for Brandon’s father due to age difference.
Became Brandon’s NFL agent before the draft.
Active in Northside Church of Christ with family.
Cameo appearance in Greater.
Helped produce an ESPN documentary on Brandon.
Frequently speaks nationwide on perseverance.
Personally presents the Burlsworth Trophy each year.
Frequently Asked Questions about Marty Burlsworth
Who is Marty Burlsworth?
Older brother of Brandon Burlsworth, Chairman/CEO of the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation.
What happened to Brandon Burlsworth?
Tragically killed in a car accident in 1999, days after NFL draft.
What is the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation?
Organization founded by Marty Burlsworth supporting underprivileged children’s physical and spiritual needs.
Who won the Burlsworth Trophy in 2025?
Drew Mestemaker from University of North Texas.
Where does Marty Burlsworth live?
In Harrison, Arkansas.
Is there a movie about Brandon Burlsworth?
Yes, Greater (2016), with Marty’s involvement.
What is “Do it the Burls Way”?
Motto meaning integrity, coined by Houston Nutt.
Conclusion on Marty Burlsworth
Marty Burlsworth exemplifies selfless leadership through decades stewarding the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation. In 2025, his efforts continue uplifting children in Arkansas and beyond, honoring Brandon’s remarkable journey from Harrison walk-on to All-American.
With programs like the Burlsworth Trophy, camps, and eye care, Marty ensures Burlsworth character inspires. Supported by Vickie, family, and community, Marty Burlsworth proves that true impact comes from faith, hard work, and turning loss into hope—forever doing it the Burls Way.
