The People of Burleson: Pamela Toole
Deep Roots, Strong Bonds
The People of Burleson is a new concept by Brandon Crisp to interview, get to know, and write articles on the everyday people who call Burleson their home, or where they’re from. This is the fourth in a series of articles about several different residents, and if you’d like to be featured, please use the “Message Me” button at the bottom of the page to reach out! Enjoy reading and learning about Pamela Toole!
Pamela Toole, or Pam for short, has a beautiful story of living in Burleson, demonstrating deep roots, personal resilience, and an unwavering dedication to the community. She is a long-time resident of the city and has witnessed its massive transformation over the years while also contributing significantly to the fabric of Burleson. I asked Pam several questions about her daily life, her favorite aspects of Burleson, and some general “get-to-know-you” type questions. Through these conversations, I learned a lot about a person who deeply cares about the city she calls home.
On a typical day, Pam strikes a good balance between her professional responsibilities and personal passions. She works mornings on Monday and Friday, managing her successful independent insurance business located in Old Town Burleson. When she’s not working, she enjoys gardening, finding it therapeutic to connect with nature and find peace in her surroundings. Living on five acres near Lost Oak Winery, Pam enjoys the tranquility of country life.
Her husband, a retired Crowley ISD teacher, shares her passion for their serene homestead. Pam’s venture into the insurance business twenty-five years ago was a leap of faith, but it has paid off wonderfully, providing her with an opportunity to meet many of Burleson’s finest residents. This venture expanded her social circle beyond just her church friends, opening up even more avenues of community interaction.
Did you know that Pam and her family are famous? In the year 2000, she, her husband Mike, and their son Ryan were able to be extras in an episode of “Walker, Texas Ranger” named “Home of the Brave” that was being filmed in Dallas. Despite the extreme Texas heat (the Texas heat spares none), they experienced the fun intricacies of filming, including portable air conditioning units and a lot of waiting around. This experience remains one of Pam’s most cherished memories. They've even seen the episode numerous times on TV reruns and recorded it on a VHS tape. Every time they watch it, it brings a smile to their faces!
Pam moved to Burleson in 1969 while she was in the sixth grade. Although she would never want to call anywhere but Burleson home now, the initial move was abrupt and traumatic. Initially living and growing up with her grandparents, Pam was kidnapped by her mother and brought to Burleson. Despite the tumultuous start, Pam has stayed in Burleson ever since, graduating from Burleson High School, as did her children and one grandchild.
When I asked Pam about her favorite events in Burleson, several were mentioned, but none held the same regard in her heart as the Fourth of July and Christmas parades. She and her family always enjoy the festivities, walking from Newton Street to Johnson Avenue with their neighbors. She feels that these events are highlights of each year, showcasing the wonderful sense of community that Burleson provides during the celebrations.
There are several places in Burleson that Pam loves, but those that foster her love for gardening top the list. She also enjoys local cuisine, particularly the restaurants in Old Town. When asked to pick her favorite spot, she mentioned one of the newest restaurants in Old Town, Station 330! She really likes the Old Town area for its vibrant, community-focused atmosphere. Pam also enjoys Warren Park, which is always bustling with young people playing pickleball. Fun fact: Warren Park used to be the only park in Burleson, and Pam loves that it still remains a cherished part of the city.
Having spent over 50 years in Burleson, Pam has seen her fair share of very significant changes in the area. As will sound familiar to readers of other “The People of Burleson” articles, what Pam loves the most about the changes to Burleson is the ability to fulfill most needs inside of the city without having to drive to Fort Worth constantly. She admires the development of the Mayor Vera Calvin Plaza and the growth of the weekly Farmer’s Market, which have become hubs for community gatherings.
Pamela has always been very involved in the community. Previously, she was very active in the Lions Club, serving as the treasurer. Lately, however, being a grandparent has shifted her and her husband’s focus. Pam has a total of nine grandchildren, and she mentions that they always seem to arrive in pairs!
Although they are still contributing to the community, they do so in a quieter, behind-the-scenes way. Pam and her husband have spent a decade working with a formerly homeless man, helping him regain his sight through cataract surgery and securing a remodeled apartment for him. They also regularly assist people without vehicles, helping to transport them to Promises and the local Harvest House. Pam appreciates the community leaders’ foresight in addressing various issues and striving to make Burleson more harmonious and inclusive.
Pam has so many fantastic memories from her time living in Burleson. She fondly recalls high school football games where her brothers played on the team and where she also participated in the pep squad. She also thinks back to playing in city volleyball leagues, working at Hilley’s Pharmacy, enjoying cherry vanilla Dr. Pepper from Burleson’s Dairy Twin, and attending the homecoming parades and bonfires. Additionally, Burleson’s first workout place, The Magic Mirror, holds a very special place in her heart.
I asked Pamela if she had any pieces of advice for people thinking about or actively moving into Burleson, as well as for the younger generation of the city. She advises newcomers to explore and enjoy Burleson’s parks and restaurants. She also emphasizes the importance of meeting the wonderful people and great community leaders in the city. For Pam, the diversity of friendships is crucial for a great life, and she encourages forming connections with people whose backgrounds differ from your own. As for the younger generation, Pam suggests not wasting your life solely earning money to pay the bills. Instead, she encourages making a difference in the world and focusing on the people who will miss you the most once you are gone, rather than on the debtors.
When I asked Pam about what she would love to see in the future in Burleson, she aimed to someone who’s roots begin in Burleson: Kelly Clarkson. Pam would love to see a surprise concert here in Clarkson’s hometown (side note, I would love to interview her for this series if anyone can put me into contact with her). Not only does Pam believe that it would be just an overall great experience, but it would also further bring pride to everyone for being from or living in this great city.
Lastly, I asked Pam if there was anything else that she would like to share and she mentioned a personal wish that was touching to me, and I hope to the readers as well. She dreams of sitting down with her dad and having a conversation. Her father unfortunately passed away when she was only ten years old and she would love just to be able to ask so many questions and share so many stories. I loved this, especially having lost my own dad, and I could share some advice that I’m sure Pam would second: spend as much time with your parents as they can, because when they’re gone, you’re going to miss them way more than you realize.
If you would like to share your experiences and thoughts on the future of Burleson, message me today and you too can be featured in a future article.