Robert Leonard Burnley (affectionately known as Bob) passed away peacefully into the arms of God on Wednesday, July 10, 2019. He was born on February 24, 1931 in New Haven Connecticut to the late Elsie Madeline McAbee. Born and raised in New Haven, Robert graduated from Hillhouse High School. During his four years at Hillhouse he was an Allstar athlete in both football and basketball. He was inducted into the Hillhouse High School Hall of Fame on March 15, 2008. After graduating from Hillhouse, Robert attended New York University (NYU) where he continued to play football. Upon leaving NYU, he joined the United States Army where he was an Information Education Instructor for the Special Forces Unit while continuing to play basketball. After his honorary discharge from the U.S. Army, Robert played professional football with the Cleveland Browns of the NFL. After leaving the NFL, Robert continued to pursue his passion for sports traveling the East Coast playing basketball. While playing basketball in Cambridge Massachusetts, Robert met the love of his life Aline in 1954. After a 2 year courtship, Robert and Aline wed on April 28, 1956. They celebrated 63 years of marriage. Robert was baptized at Varick Memorial AME Zion Church at an early age. He remained a dedicated and faithful member for more than 85 years. Robert also loved his Native American Heritage. He attended many Powwows and proudly wore his regalia every day. Robert was a loyal employee. He worked with Sparybond-Swift Company for 13 years (winning basketball league championships for 9 of those 13) and U.S. Steel for 15 years. He worked for the New Haven Public School system until he retired in 2003. Left to cherish his precious memory are his wife, Aline Burnley, his godchildren, along with many loving nieces, nephews and friends. Robert was predeceased by his brother Maurice Burnley Jr and his daughter Joy Ann Burnley. Visitation will be held Thursday July 18th, at Varick Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church 242 Dixwell Ave. New Haven, with a service starting at 11. Burial will follow in Hamden Plains Cemetery.