James H. Purcell

James “Jim” H. Purcell Jr., 88, better known as Coach Jim, Coach Purcell or known to his grandchildren and great grandchildren as Coachie passed away on Friday, March 15, 2024. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. He was born in St. Petersburg, Florida, on November 6, 1935 to James H. Purcell Sr. and Hughes Powell Purcell. He graduated from St. Petersburg High School then went on to the University of Florida in Gainesville to become a Florida Gator! In 1964 he returned to Gainesville to get his masters. After graduating from the College of Physical Education and Health at U.F. he joined the U.S. Army. He spent most of his service in Korea. He said many times how much living over there made him appreciate America. When he completed his service, he moved to Kissimmee to teach and coach at the Osceola High School and Beaumont Middle School. Jim was a member of the Silver Spurs Riding Club and was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award Coca Cola Cowboy in 2011. He was also a member of the Jacob Summerlin Camp Sons of Confederate Veterans, he was a longtime member of the Kissimmee Elks Lodge #1873.
Jim survived by his wife of almost 60 years, Sandra Beach Purcell, three children: Jimmie (Tina) Purcell, Rawl (Michelle) Purcell and Beth Lanier; eight grandchildren: Jacob Purcell, Colby Purcell, Carson Purcell, Ryder Purcell, Paris Purcell, Chase Lanier, Dalton Lanier and Denton Lanier; three great grandchildren: Cole Lanier, Brody Lanier and Riley Lanier.
Graveside services will be held 11:00 A.M. Saturday, March 23, 2024 with Pastor Leonard Thompson, HeartCry Chapel, St. Cloud, FL., Officiating. There will be no formal visitation.

The Purcell family is being cared for by: CONRAD & THOMPSON FUNERAL HOME 511 Emmett Street, Kissimmee, Florida 34741, (407) 847-3188.

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