John E. Purney Jr.

John E. Purney Jr., 82, of Canton, passed away peacefully at Aultman Hospital on Wednesday, June 10, 2026. He was born in Canton, Ohio, on February 13, 1944, to the late John E. and Esther Ruth (Dunmire) Purney Sr. and remained a lifelong resident of the Canton area.

John was a devoted member of Richville United Church of Christ for many years, where he found strength in his faith and fellowship among friends and family.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved wife, Mary Jo (Kisela) Purney, who passed away on May 12, 2025; son John Joseph Purney

Those left to cherish John's memory are his daughter, Terri Purney; his son, Richard (Diane) Purney; his grandson, Nathan Johnson; and his great-grandson, Tytan and many friends.

John filled his life with family and friends. He loved helping others. He was an avid golfer and loved sports in general, especially his Cleveland Browns and Guardians. His passing will leave a void in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. There will be peace knowing he will be laid to rest with his wife Mary Jo and his son John Joseph.

Friends and family are invited to gather in remembrance on Wednesday June 17, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Richville United Church of Christ, 6125 Richville Dr. SW, Navarre, Ohio 44662. A funeral service honoring John's life will follow at 12:00 p.m., with Pastor Will Stewart officiating. Interment will take place at West Lawn Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Richville United Church of Christ in honor of John's life and legacy.

Arrangements are entrusted to Kreighbaum Sanders Funeral Home, 4041 Cleveland Ave. S., Canton, Ohio 44707. Family and friends may offer condolences and share memories at:

www.sandersfuneralhomes.com 

(330) 484-2525