John William Purvis Jr., 85, December 8, 1926 - April 19, 2012. Born in Ripley MS to John and Maybelle, John W. Purvis Jr. spent much of his youth in Depression era Pickwick, Oxford and Jackson MS. Upon graduation from Central High School in Jackson, John served in the US Navy for the final year of WWII, thereafter graduating Ole Miss with a BS degree in Business and lettering 4 years in golf. From 1948, John worked for more than 50 years in the mid-south insurance and surety bond business, including time as branch manager of the Memphis office of the Fidelity and Deposit Company, and as a VP at Brown and Associates. During his long career he established many life-long professional and personal friendships, and became recognized as one of the most respected agents and financial advisers nationally. Over many years, John pursued his love of both fishing and golf, at golf winning the MS Amateur as well as the Memphis Pub Links. In recognition of his life long contribution to local area golf, John was inducted into the Memphis Park Commission Amateur Sports Hall of Fame in 1995. In 1953 John married the greatest love of his life, the beautiful Serita Tucker of Jackson MS. They raised a family in Memphis and remained together until her passing in 1991. Very active late in life, John worked part time as a consultant and financial adviser. He also picked up a pool cue and a colorful nickname after 18 holes of golf became a little much for him. In 2009, John finally retired and moved to Sequim, WA where he resided at the Lodge of Sherwood Village and he developed the last of his many friendships, retained his great sense of humor, and still on occasion enjoyed a cigar. John is survived by his daughter, Shannon; two sons, John and Jay; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Visitation will be at Forest Hill East, 2440 Whitten Rd. Friday, April 27, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with services at 1 p.m.