Joseph "Joe" Madison Purgason

In loving memory of Joseph Madison Purgason, 75, passed away to his heavenly home on August 23, 2026. Joe was born on November 12, 1950, to parents, Samuel and Hazel Roland Purgason.

A funeral service will be held at Wilkerson Funeral Home on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at 11:00 AM with Pastor Joey Langley and Mr. Donald Stone officiating. The family will receive friends the night before the service from 6-8 PM at the funeral home and other times at the home. Burial will follow the service at Evergreen Memory Gardens. Graveside Military Honors will be conducted by the Rockingham County Honor Guard.

Surviving him are his wife of 57 years, Peggy Stone Purgason; daughter, Bonnie Jo Shelton; granddaughter, Elizabeth Woodson (Michael); cherished beyond what words can be expressed, great granddaughter, Kierstan Woodson; niece, Valerie Stone whom he loved like a daughter; brother’s in law, Donald Stone (Patti) and Ronald Stone (Dreama); sister-in-law, Louise Toler; sisters, Carolyn Pinnix and Debbie Knighten.

He is preceded in death by a brother, Dewey Purgason.

Joe retired from Ball Corporation after 36 and one half years of hard work. He was known as “Sarge” by his coworkers; he was a proud Army Veteran who served a tour in Vietnam. Joe never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone. A true republican he loved talking politics and could tell you anything about US history. He loved reading and crossword puzzles. One of his favorite things to do was to go out for breakfast with his daughter, granddaughter and beloved great granddaughter. The most important thing in his life was his family. The family takes comfort in knowing that they will “see him later”.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his honor to Ancora Compassionate Care at PO BOX 281, Wentworth, NC 27357.