Photo No. 2823

James B. Purkey, 90, died, Sunday, July 12, 2026, in Beaumont, Texas.

Jim was born on September 17, 1935, to Kermit and Ida Purkey in Port Neches, Texas.

Jim served in the United States Army, where he was stationed in Fort Chaffe, Arkansas.

Jim worked for GSU, then with Entergy for thirty-five years in the Right of Way Department. He loved woodworking and was very active in his church until his health declined.

Jim is survived by his wife of sixty-eight years, Joan; daughters, Jeri Gentry and spouse, Mark Gentry, as well as Julie Purkey and her partner, Patricia McCall; granddaughter, Lauren Gentry; and great – grandchildren, Madison and Daniel; and his niece, Kimberly Burnett.

Mr. Purkey's cremation arrangements were handled through Broussard's Crematorium, Beaumont, under the direction of Broussard's, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont, at his request, no service will be held.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James, please visit our floral store.