Joseph Alexander Purvis, much loved husband, father, grandfather and friend, died suddenly at home on January 26, 2026. He was born in Jackson, Mississippi, on October 2, 1953, the youngest of four sons of Dr. George Dewey Purvis and Janet Mitchell Purvis.
Joe attended Jackson Public Schools, and attained the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America, and graduated from Southwestern at Memphis (now Rhodes College). He earned his juris doctor degree in 1984 at Mississippi College School of Law, where he was a member of the law review.
Following law school, Joe became associated with Scott, Hetrick and McBee. He spent a majority of his career at Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company, retiring as senior vice president, general counsel and secretary in 2018.
Joe treasured his times playing golf, highlighted by trips to Bandon Dunes and St. Andrews. He valued the etiquette, history and camaraderie of the game, and he was known for his ability to coach other players when asked.
Affectionately known as “Bear” to his grandchildren, Joe took great joy in making detailed plans for family trips to Disney World. He enjoyed evenings in with a good book and a bite of dark chocolate.
Joe’s calming presence and kindness will always be remembered by friends, colleagues and family.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Janie Lydick Purvis; daughter, Mary Mitchell Todd, and son-in-law, William Gardner Todd IV, of Alexandria, Va.; and grandchildren, Elizabeth Louis Todd and William Gardner Todd V. He is also survived by brothers George Dewey Purvis (Nancy), John Marvin Purvis (Gayla), Mitchell Mark Purvis (Dixie); sister-in-law, Mary Lydick Rogers; brother-in-law, Walter Edwin Lydick; and many nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Parkway Memorial Cemetery in Ridgeland.
Visitation will be at First Presbyterian Church of Jackson, where he was a longtime member, on Saturday, January 31, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., followed by a worship service at 11:30 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 1390 North State Street, Jackson, MS 39202 or to MD Anderson Cancer Center, P.O. Box 4486, Houston, TX 77210-4486 or MDAnderson.org/Gifts
