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Robert Purifoy Obituary

John Robert Purifoy, 80, passed away peacefully at his home in Nesbit, MS on Monday, January 13, 2025. He was born in Memphis, TN on September 20, 1944, to the late Henry and Bernice Purifoy. After graduating high school, Robert attended college. Shortly after, he joined the United States Army where he served as a Med Tech. He won the National Defense Service Medal for Sharpshooter by rifle. After serving in the military, Robert worked at the VA Hospital as a hematologist, then became his own boss working in different business ventures. Robert married the love of his life Constance Purifoy on October 21, 1967 at St. Paul Catholic Church in Memphis, TN and from that union two beautiful children were created. Robert was a 4th degree member of the Knights of Columbus, he sang in the choir at Christ the King Catholic Church, where he worked as well. He enjoyed playing farkle, he enjoyed building and fixing any and everything he could. Robert loved his yard, he enjoyed cutting his grass and keeping the yard neat, he even kept the churches grass just as nice as his own! Robert is preceded in death by his parents, his loving wife of 57 years, Constance, a brother Henry Purifoy Jr. and a sister Betty Lou Albonetti. He leaves behind to cherish his memory, his children, Michael Robert Purifoy (Lisa) and Melissa Purifoy Reaves (Ken), his grandchildren, Jacob Purifoy (Olivia), Owen Purifoy, and Brandon Reaves, plus 2 step grandchildren Michael Hale and Amber Haynes, along with 1 great-grandchild, Waylon Purifoy and 6 bonus great grandchildren. He is also survived by 2 siblings, Ronnie Purifoy (Vicki) and Darlene Cowan. Robert will forever be in our hearts, and we will miss him more than words can express. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. To send a flower arrangement or to plant trees in memory of Robert Purifoy, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Daily Memphian on Jan. 15, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
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2 Entries

Judi Laux

January 20, 2025

I was the flower girl at Robert and Connie´s wedding. I always felt a strong connection with them. They are loved and missed greatly.

George Brandenburg

January 18, 2025

I remember Robert as a kid growing up on Nelson and going to school together at IC. Robert and I played a lot together and had a lot of fun. I won't tell you some of the things we did as kids, nothing bad but we were mischievous. I lost touch with him when I graduated from IC and went to high school. I have often thought of Robert over the years and happy to hear that he had a good life and sorry that he and I could not of had a chance to reminisce. As I currently do not live in the area and will not be able to attend the services, please accept my heartfelt condolences to the entire family.

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Forest Hill Funeral Home and Memorial Park - East

2440 Whitten Road, Memphis, TN 38133

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