James Palmer "Jim" Burrell Sr.

In the gracious providence of our Lord, we honor and commemorate the life of James Palmer Burrell Sr., affectionately known as "Jim" to his friends and loved ones. Born under the winter's firmament on the twelfth of February in 1943, in the humble town of Massillon, Ohio, Jim's earthly journey came to a peaceful end on the nineteenth of August 2025, in the serene town of Reserve, Louisiana.

Jim was a man of valor and virtue, whose lineage is traced with pride to his beloved parents, the late William Lawrence Burrell and Lutie Mae Louise Burrell. His life's tapestry was further adorned by his cherished sister, Elizabeth Ann Serio (Steve), and brother, Jere Burrell (Theresa), who shares in the legacy of his spirited memory.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Janet Louise Burrell; his deeply loved children, Tina Louise Ossenkopp (Joseph S. Reese), Tracey Lynn Burrell, and James Palmer Burrell Jr. (Anne Marie); and his Godson, David Brinkmeyer. Jim's legacy continues through his precious grandchildren, Lexi Ossenkopp, Joseph E. Reese, Michael David Leach Jr. (Ashlee), Elizabeth Mae Marshall (Christopher), Peighton Tubbs (Gabe), Jeremy Sambola, Landen James Burrell, and Gianna Aurora Burrell, and his great-granddaughter, Xena Alexandra. Jim is the adored brother of Dorothy Brinkmeyer (Willie), Larry Burrell (Nancy), Dennis Burrell (Linda), Jann O'Flannigan (Mike), Patti Seni (Leonard), Debbie Scott (Randy) Ruth Grate (Dwight), and Richard Burrell (Cheryl).

Our dear Jim was a scholar at heart, and his quest for knowledge led him to the hallowed halls of Delgado Community College, where he pursued the noble discipline of Computer Science. In 1990, he received his Associate of Science degree, an accomplishment that crowned his life of service and learning.

His service to our nation was both honorable and distinguished. In the days of his youth, he heeded the call of duty and served in the United States Navy during the tumultuous times of the Vietnam War. With an honorable discharge after four years of steadfast service, he then cast his lot with the Coast Guard, where he spent 23 years before retiring in 1987 with the esteemed rank of Chief Warrant Officer 3. Jim's dedication to his country was a testament to his love for his fellow man and the principles upon which our great nation stands.

A man of deep and abiding faith, Jim walked the path of Christianity with a heart full of grace and a spirit steeped in the love of the Almighty. His life was a living psalm, a testament to the goodness and mercy that follow the faithful all the days of their lives.

Jim's interests were as varied as the stars in the firmament. He delighted in the gentleman's game of golf, a pastime that brought him both joy and fellowship. He was a steadfast member of the SMM Men's Club for 15 years, and his recent induction into the Sons of the American Revolution was a proud milestone. Moreover, his over 30 years of commitment to the Knights of Columbus was a reflection of his charitable heart and his dedication to community service.

To describe Jim as spirited, loving, and intelligent is to paint but a shadow of the man he truly was. His presence was a beacon of light, his laughter a balm to the soul, and his wisdom a treasure that enriched all who were privileged to know him.

In the words of the timeless bard, John Donne, "One short sleep past, we wake eternally, and death shall be no more; Death, thou shalt die." Jim's life was a sonnet of such sweet cadence that even in his passing, the echoes of his legacy resound with the promise of eternal life.

Let us hold fast to the memory of James Palmer Burrell Sr., a man whose life was a portrait of love, a symphony of service, and a testament to the enduring spirit of humanity. As he now abides in the heavenly kingdom, may we find comfort in the knowledge that his story is etched in the annals of time and in the hearts of those he leaves behind. Amen.

Jim's family expresses their heartfelt appreciation for all that prayed and supported their family in unique ways and to the team of amazing women that cared for Jim in the last days of his life including the ACG Hospice Team and the Reserve VA Nursing Home staff, especially the women that cared for him: Miss Terri (Nurse and dancing partner), Alaney (Nurse and comedy act), Kerriyona (caregiver with a heart of gold), and Ajanae (caregiver with a lot of patience).

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Wednesday, August 27, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Audubon Funeral Home in Slidell. A Funeral Mass will begin in the chapel at 11:00 a.m. Jim will be laid to rest with Military Honors in the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery at 12:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please donate to one of the following charities: the Wounded Warrior Project, the Alzheimer's Association, or the American Diabetes Association. Memories and condolences may be expressed at www.AudubonFuneralHome.com