Jim Purvis Cason

Jim Purvis Cason, age 84, of Lake Butler, passed away on April 13, 2023, in Gainesville, FL. Purvis was born on April 26, 1938, in Lake Butler, to Gurney “S” Cason and Merle (Whitehead) Cason- Brown. He was a lifelong resident of Lake Butler and a 1956 graduate of Union County High School. After graduation, Purvis enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he served a total of 6 years. After the Marines, he served in the United States Army before retiring after 23 years of service. During his service, Purvis served 1 tour in Lebanon and 3 tours in Vietnam where he was awarded two Bronze Stars and numerous other awards. His service took him all over the world before finally returning back home to Lake Butler. When he returned home, he soon began work with the Department of Corrections while also getting involved in local politics. Purvis served on City Commission for several years and was Mayor of Lake Butler. He was an avid gun and knife collector and enjoyed the outdoors. He was a member of First Christian Church. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Billie Cason; and his brothers, Jesse M. Cason and Clifton Robert “Rob” Cason.

Purvis is survived by his children, Diane Holder of Newberry, David (Mary) Scarborough of Gainesville, Dean (Nancy) Scarborough of Gainesville, and Beth Marie Cason of Anniston, AL; 8 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren; nephews, Steve Cason of Charleston, SC, Scott (Cindy) Cason of Lake Butler; and his sister in law, Margie F. Cason of Lake Butler; numerous extended family also survive.

A graveside service with Military Honors will be held on Saturday, April 22, at 4:00 PM at Dekle Cemetery in Lake Butler. The family will receive friends for a visitation on Friday, April 21, from 6-8:00 PM at Archer-Milton Funeral Home, Lake Butler. 386-496-2008. www.ArcherFuneralHome.com