John Edward "Peter" Purifoy of Rockford, departed this earthly life August 5, 2021. He was born May 6, 1929 in Bluff City, Arkansas the son of Leroy and Bessie Purifoy. John lived in Rockford since 1949 coming from Arkansas. He married the former Willie Mae Washington, she preceded him in death. John was employed over 30 years by National Lock Company. He was a veteran of the U. S. Army. He was a member of the Jefferson Horton American Legion Post 340 over 70 years.  John was a former member of New Zion Missionary Baptist Church. He attended schools in Arkansas.

John leaves to cherish many loving memories, son, Wayne Simien and daughter Andrea Holliman; five grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was predeceased by his wife, parents, daughter, Theresa Purifoy-Handy and son Andre Holliman; sisters, Mamie Goodwin and Minnie Lee Gill; brothers, Leroy Purifoy, Otis Marks, Donnie, Hollis and James Purifoy.

Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, August 11, 2021 at  Carl E Ponds Funeral Home Inc. 200 N. Johnston Ave. Burial in Sunset Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be held 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.