James William "Jim" Purcell

James "Jim" W. Purcell, age 64, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, September 28, 2016 at his home. He was born March 8, 1952 in Bellefontaine, Ohio to the late John and Betty (Wright) Purcell. Jim graduated from The Ohio State University and Central Michigan University. At OSU, he was awarded as the most outstanding debater in 1974. After graduation, he was the coach of the state runner-up debate team from Toledo Whitmer High School. Jim taught at and retired from Whitehall-Yearling High School. At his death, he was dedicated to the St. Francis DeSales High School community where he was a former teacher and managed the Spirit Shop. Jim was an active and devoted member of St. Anthony Parish and an avid Ohio State Buckeye fan. Along with his parents, Jim is preceded in death by his sister, Mary Kay Allen and brother, Tom Purcell. He is survived by loving wife of 33 years, Mary Purcell; devoted children, Megan (Mark Caral) Purcell and Tim (Casey Aldrich) Purcell; sisters-in-law, Joyce Purcell, Carol McCorkle and Sue (Richard) Sweazy; brother-in-law, Steve (Jodi) Allen; along with many nieces and nephews. Family will receive friends Sunday from 4-7 p.m. at SCHOEDINGER NORTH CHAPEL, 5554 Karl Road. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 1 p.m. Monday, October 3, 2016 at St. Anthony Parish, 1300 Urban Drive, Columbus, Ohio. A graveside service will follow the Mass at Calvary Cemetery in Bellefontaine, Ohio at 3:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations are strongly encouraged to be made to the St. Francis DeSales Scholarship Fund, 4212 Karl Road, Columbus, Ohio 43224. A memorial scholarship will be established in Jim's honor.