Huntley James Burroughs' Obituary
Our Heavenly Father released 74 year old Huntley James Burroughs (aka Jim, Smedley, Smed, HJ and GUS) from his earthly struggles on October 12, 2025. Huntley was preceded in death by his parents, Huntley and Virginia Burroughs; sister and brother-in-law, Roxanne and William “Blacko” Blackmer; sister-in-law, Shirley Burroughs; niece, Ginny Blackmer; and nephew, Fred Blackmer.
Surviving and mourning his passing are Huntley's loving wife, Mary; brother, Robert Burroughs; sons, Benjamin (Amy) Burroughs and Seth (Kyle) Burroughs; grandchildren, Grace and Sam Burroughs and his special little buddy and first-mate, Will Patel. Huntley was close to his nieces and nephews and leaves behind Bill, David, Barb, Claire, Laura, and Julie to grieve his death. Also surviving are a host of cousins, great nieces and nephews, in addition to Mary's family, who all adored Huntley.
Huntley graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in Wildlife Management. Due to the economic struggles of the country at the time, he was unable to secure a position in his field. He pivoted to the restaurant industry. Prior to serving as the head chef at Jim's Tiffany Place in Lansing, MI, Huntley completed an accelerated course at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY. He later went on to own his own restaurant, Buttons, in Mason, MI. He was also a general manager at The Olive Garden, before finishing his career as a Field Service Manager for Petersen Farms, Inc. in Shelby, MI.
Avid is not a strong enough adjective to describe Huntley's relationship with the game of golf. Huntley lived to play golf. When not on the course he would be perfecting his swing in his dreams or by swinging the 7-iron he kept in the living room. Huntley also had an eye for photography and his camera was nearly always with him. He loved photographing flowers and land and seascapes and would often print them on canvas to give as gifts. He loved to hike and explore, especially in the state of Michigan. His favorite place on earth was the ghost forest, atop the mama bear blowout, at Sleeping Bear Dunes. A close second was Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. He also loved being in or on Lake Michigan. Huntley enjoyed every season in Michigan, autumn being his favorite, but the variety of ice formations along the lakeshore in winter intrigued him.
Huntley considered it his civic duty to donate blood. Being O negative, the blood centers were grateful for his dedication. Huntley donated over 25 gallons of blood in his lifetime.
The family would like to express their thanks to Hospice of Michigan for their loving care and support provided during Huntley's last weeks of life. Also, a huge thank you for the fabulous neighbors that helped immensely for the past two years; Adam, Ron/Jolynn, Larry/Alma, and Denny/Bonnie. Bonnie, our earthly angel, made herself available 24/7/365 in any capacity needed, and was called upon frequently.
Huntley supported many charitable organizations. If you are looking for a way to honor his memory, consider a donation to the Salvation Army, Smile Train, or The Nature Conservancy. Or, if so inclined, consider donating a unit of blood in Huntley's memory.
A memorial service celebrating Huntley's life will be held at a later date.
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