The Excelsior Standard, Oct. 25, 2024

James Purgason

Evans Funeral Home of Jefferson, Ga., announces the death of Mr. James Darden Purgason, 91, of Lawrenceville, Ga. He died peacefully Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024, at home. Mr. Purgason was born in Maud, Okla., the son of the late Palmer Wade Purgason and the late Augusta Lance Purgason. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Jill Barney; brother, Carrol Purgason; and great-grandson, Beckett Purgason.

Mr. Purgason dedicated his 30-year career to training underprivileged youth within the Job Corps vocational program. He served as Job Corps center director in Detroit and Excelsior Springs before assuming regional oversight of several Midwestern Job Corps centers.

Known as an engaging storyteller, Mr. Purgason shared tales of family and life adventures.

A dedicated husband and father, he was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Jefferson. He was a lifelong sports fan and outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing, hunting, coaching and following football, and playing golf well into his 80s.

Survivors include his wife of 66 years, Jeanette “Jan” Purgason of Lawrenceville. Other survivors include four children, Richard Darden (Melissa) Purgason of Dacula, Ga.; Jon (Ruth) Purgason of Carthage, N.C.; David Purgason of Atlanta; and Daniel Purgason of Queens, N.Y. He also leaves behind a sister, Palma Hildebrand of Gainesville, Texas; 13 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

A veteran who served in Germany, Mr. Purgason’s ashes will be interred at the Georgia National Cemetery. Memorial services are planned for 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, at The Mansions, 2400 Buford Drive, Lawrenceville.