James Robert Purnell

Funeral services for Mr. James Robert Purnell will begin at 11:00 AM Friday, January 24, 2025, in the chapel of Robert Barham Family Funeral Home with Dr. Mark Benson officiating. Service music will be provided by Mr. Michael Gibson. A Private Family Interment will follow graveside rites at Magnolia Cemetery. Robert Barham Family Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements.

James (Jimmy) Purnell, age 95, devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on Sunday, January 19, 2025.  Jimmy is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 56 years, Penny Daniel Purnell.

Born to Glenn “Doc” and Evelyn Purnell, Jimmy grew up in Meridian with his brother, Frank Purnell. He graduated from Meridian High School and then proudly served his country in the United States Air Force before earning his degree from Mississippi State University. A man of vision and determination, he founded Credit Services in 1954, where he served as President until his retirement in 1995.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jimmy was an avid golfer. He was known for his remarkable skill on the course, achieving an extraordinary 15 holes-in-one throughout his lifetime. He always enjoyed his time on the greens, where he cultivated many friendships. Jimmy founded Feet Without Soles, a program that provided shoes for children in need throughout the Meridian area for many years. He also cherished his time with his friends as a member of Cater’s Coffee Club.

A man of strong faith, Jimmy served as an elder at Trinity Presbyterian Church. He was also an active member of First Christian Church throughout his later years.

Jimmy is survived by his children: Leslie Rush, III (Tammy) and Laurie Barker (Greg); his grandchildren: Leslie Rush IV (Emily), Neely Brantley (Karl), Andrew Rush (Hallie), Meagan Smith (Josh), Meredith Barker, and Madison Barker; and eight great-grandchildren, and his nieces: Lisa Purnell Moore and Kim Purnell Theros.

Jimmy will be remembered for his kind heart, unwavering dedication to his family, and the passion he brought to everything he did. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

His family would like to thank the outstanding staff at Aldersgate for their loving care and compassion shown to Jimmy throughout his time there.

The Purnell Family suggests memorials be made as donations to the First Christian Church Organ Fund in lieu of flowers.

Online condolences may be expressed at robertbarhamffh.com.

The Purnell Family will receive guests from 10:00 AM until 10:45 AM prior to funeral rites in the chapel.