Robert Donald "Don" Purgason

Mr. Robert Donald "Don" Purgason, 83, of Newnan, Ga, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on June 12, 2025. He was born on June 29, 1941, in Roosterville, GA, to the late M.C. Purgason and the late Nora Lee Adams Purgason. He was preceded in death by an infant sister, four brothers, J.W. Purgason, James Hugh Purgason, Bobby Gene Purgason, and Doyle Fuller Purgason, and sisters, Betty Decker and Frances Ann South Mitchell. He is survived by his loving wife, Ilene Wright Purgason, and daughter, Kimberly (Joe) Elrod; granddaughter, Zoe Elrod, and grandsons, Sam Elrod and Logan Vickery, and many nieces and nephews.
Don grew up in a large family without many advantages. He lost his father after a long illness when he was only 14 years old. He did not have the opportunity to finish high school after his father's death, but he worked very hard to help his mother and his siblings keep their family afloat.
In January of 1960, Don met Ilene while both were hospitalized in Franklin, GA, with bouts of Influenza. In September of that same year, he married his true love and soul mate. They were lucky to spend the next 64 years by one another's side. When they were unable to have children of their own, they adopted their daughter, Kim, in 1974. Bringing her home from the hospital at three days old, he always said, was the happiest day of his life.
In 1961, Don began working for Georgia Highway Express. He started on the dock and later discovered his true calling when he learned to drive an 18-wheeler. He was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1966 and honorably discharged in 1968. He took pride in serving his country by providing transportation for paratroopers in training. After his discharge, Don returned to Georgia Highway Express (GHE) as a city driver. Over the years, Don saw GHE change ownership several times, first to TRANSUS and then to USF Dugan. He spent a number of years training and testing new drivers and received awards for his efforts. He retired in 2004 after 43 years of loyal service.
Don served as a deacon and was a long-time member of Raymond Baptist Church. He enjoyed singing in the choir and helping out wherever he was needed. After leaving Raymond Baptist, he attended and served at Lisbon Baptist Church for many years.
Don was a fun-loving guy who loved to talk and never met a stranger. He had a great sense of humor and a broad smile. He loved music, gardening, camping, fishing, and spending time with close friends and family. He was happiest when he was with the ones he loved. He was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He will be sorely missed.
The family would like to recognize and offer our sincere thanks to Georgia Hospice Care and especially Don's nurse, Audrey Beckman.
Don's memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2025 at 1:00 PM in the Chapel of McKoon Funeral Home, 38 Jackson Street, Newnan, GA 30263, with Lee Ayers officiating.
Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.mckoon.com.
McKoon Funeral Home & Crematory (770) 253-4580