Wesley Burress

Wesley “Wes” Burress, 76, of Catlin, Illinois passed away on November 4, 2025 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. He was born on May 29, 1949 in Campbellsville, Kentucky to the late Walter and Frances {Gabehart} Burress. He attended Georgetown High School and graduated alongside the Class of 1967. 

From humble beginnings as an assistant meat cutter at Danville’s former A&P grocery store, he exhibited an entrepreneurial spirit that would define his remarkable career. Wesley was not just a businessman; he was a serial entrepreneur whose vision first led him to purchase and operate a Mister Donut franchise in his early 20s. He established, acquired and operated a variety of businesses that included several grocery stores, retail furniture outlets, video stores, tanning salons and commercial and residential properties throughout the area. 

Most recently, he was a partner for Schomburg & Schomburg Construction in Danville. His tenure as a business operator, investor and realtor spanned over 50 years, during which he made substantial contributions to community organizations and municipalities through his various ventures. His passion for business was matched only by his generosity, as he dedicated countless hours and resources to give back to those around him. 

Outside of his professional commitments, Wesley cherished the simple pleasures of life like playing cards and spending time with family. He often enjoyed the companionship of his good friends at the many early morning coffee groups he attended before starting his day. These gatherings were not merely a routine; they became a tradition that expanded into a lively circle of lifelong friends. 

Wesley is survived by his sons: Wesley “Michael”, wife Amanda; James, wife Jennifer; Jesse; and Joshua, as well as their mother Diana L. Burress; his grandchildren Kaitlyn, Lauren, Maxwell, Madyson, and Garrett; as well as his sisters Linda (Ron) Noggle and Brenda (David “Zeke”) Yoho; nieces Kristi and Sarah; nephew Chad; and his good friend Bob Funk. In addition to his parents, Wesley was preceded by his first wife Diana (Donnelly) Gray, mother of Wesley “Michael” and James. 

A visitation will be held from 10 am – 12 pm on Tuesday, November 11, 2025 at Sunset Funeral Home’s Houghton- Leasure Chapel, located at 200 E. West Street in Georgetown, Illinois. A funeral service will follow beginning at 12 pm on Tuesday, also at the funeral home. He will be laid to rest next to his parents at Forest Park Cemetery in Georgetown, Illinois following services. Please share fond memories, online condolences, and pictures with Wesley’s family on his Tribute Wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to support a local non-profit.