Jerry A. Purkey

Jerry Ashford Purkey, 86, entered God’s Kingdom peacefully March 23, 2026, at his Kitty Hawk home. He was surrounded by his loved ones.

Jerry was born in Kerens, West Virginia, August 19, 1939, to the late Paul and Connie Purkey. He was also preceded in death by his beloved wife, Zona Purkey; his sister, Glenda Sue; his stepson, Tony; and his stepdaughter, Ramona.

Jerry served his country bravely in the United States Air Force, stationed in Europe. He especially enjoyed his time stationed in Madrid, Spain. Jerry loved Spain and managed to become fluent in Spanish.

Following his military service, Jerry embarked on a long career with General Motors as a machinist in the Cleveland and Lordstown, Ohio, plants. Besides excelling in his profession, Jerry was passionate about his family and his faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Following retirement from GM, Jerry and Zona realized their dream of returning to North Carolina. Jerry was an avid fisherman, and Zona loved the beach, so they chose Kitty Hawk. Here, Jerry was an active servant with Lighthouse Church of Kitty Hawk. He also enjoyed playing his banjo with his granddaughters and listening to his granddaughters play the cello and ukulele. Jerry leaves a legacy of loving fatherhood, kindness, humor, and courage. Even at the end, he never complained.

Surviving Jerry is his son, Jason Purkey (Laura); three granddaughters, Jocelyn, Tessa, and Mariah, all of Ohio; as well as several step-grandchildren; his brother, David Purkey (Denise) of West Virginia; his sister, Sarah also of West Virginia; his son-in-law, Chris Feiteira of Ohio; and numerous cousins, nephews, nieces, and great-grandchildren.

In accordance with Jerry’s directives, there will be a simple, private burial at Laurel Memorial Gardens in Currituck. No services are planned. In lieu of flowers, donations are welcome at Greater Way Ministries, PO Box 812, Fairmont, WV 26555-0812. Please share expressions of sympathy with the Purkey family at www.gallopfuneralservices.com.