David Jeffrey Purcell

David Jeffrey (Jeff) Purcell, 64, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2024. Jeff was born and raised in Columbia, MO to parents Roger and Laura Beth Purcell. Jeff graduated from Hickman High. He received a B.S. degree in Fisheries and Wildlife from the University of Missouri--Columbia in 1981. Jeff had a rewarding career with the Missouri Department of Conservation as a Conservation Agent in Linn County for 18 years then as a District Supervisor until his retirement in November, 2010. From then on, time was split between Triplett, Missouri and Mexico Beach, Florida, depending on the hunting or fishing season.
Jeff married Kristi Johnson, September 8, 1990. Jeff shared his passion for hunting and fishing with Kris but didn't realize what a monster he would create! Kris was his favorite partner in all those adventures, which took them all over the U.S., to Canada, and even a hunting safari in South Africa.
Jeff loved to share his hunting and fishing experiences with all his friends. His goal when he retired was to spend much of his time in Mexico Beach and give his friends and family a deep-sea fishing experience. Jeff wanted to share something he loved so much with those who might not otherwise have a chance. It made him so happy when his friends would tell him that he ruined them for any other fishing trip!
Jeff is survived by his wife, Kristi and sister Lyndia Harvey. Jeff was preceded in death by his sister, Dianna Buckingham, brother Roger B. (Butch) Jr., and parents.
A celebration of life will will be held Friday, April 12, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. at the Locust Creek Event Center 414 West Lockling Ave. Brookfield, MO 64628.
In lieu of flowers, the family is choosing to honor Jeff with donations to Memorial Reef - MBARA for an artificial reef created in Jeff's memory. Donations may be left by directly clicking the link below or mailed to Wright Funeral Home, P.O. Box 496, Brookfield, MO 64628.
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