Jonathan Bernard Purcell's Obituary
Jonathan Bernard Purcell
December 11, 1942 – December 15, 2025
Jonathan Bernard Purcell, age 83, passed away peacefully on December 15, 2025, in Provo, Utah, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on December 11, 1942, in Fresno, California, to Bernard Halsey Purcell and Juanita Marjorie Purcell, who preceded him in death.
Jon was raised in Bakersfield, California, where his early years were shaped by music, discipline, and service. He attended Horace Mann Elementary School and Sierra Junior High School, playing the French horn in the marching band and developing a lifelong love of music. He later graduated from East High School in 1960, continuing to perform as a French horn player in the school band. During this time, Jon was also a member of the Bakersfield Philharmonic Orchestra and performed in a local dance band, The Rockets, playing both saxophone and trumpet.
Following high school, Jon began a lifetime of honorable service by joining the United States Navy. He proudly served for 28 years in active duty and the reserves, including deployments during the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm in Saudi Arabia. His military career reflected his deep sense of patriotism, duty, and quiet strength.
When not on active duty, Jon continued serving others as a police officer and detective, and later as a Private Investigator. In every role, he was known for his integrity, strong moral compass, and commitment to justice.
In 1965, Jon met the love of his life, Belinda Joyce Smith, at a church dance. They were married in September 1967 and shared a devoted partnership that spanned decades. Together, they were blessed with ten children.
Jon was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His faith was central to his life, and he found peace in nightly scripture study. Family and faith were always his highest priorities.
He had a deep passion for genealogy and took great pride in preserving family history for future generations. He also enjoyed watching football and the news, listening to audiobooks, and indulging in his favorite treats—ice cream and jelly beans, both of which brought him simple joy.
Above all else, Jon cherished his role as a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Known affectionately as “Grandpa,” he was immensely proud of his posterity and found his greatest happiness in their accomplishments and lives.
Jon is survived by his beloved wife, Belinda Joyce Purcell; his children: Terri Merchant; Tracie Maynard; Tonya Axmear (Corby); Jon Purcell (Mari); Tammy Castro (Steve); Tiffany Madsen (Spencer); Josh Purcell (Lisa); and Amanda Purcell; along with 26 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren, all of whom were a constant source of pride and joy.
He was preceded in death by his sons, PFC Jeremy Purcell and Jeffrey Purcell.
Jon will be remembered for his honorable military service, unwavering devotion to his family, steadfast faith, and the quiet, dignified strength with which he lived his life.
Viewing:
Friday, January 9, 2026 | 6:00–8:00 PM
Premier Funeral Services
1160 West 1200 North, Orem, UT 84057
Graveside Services:
Saturday, January 10, 2026 | 11:00 AM
Larkin Sunset Gardens
1950 East 10600 South, Sandy, UT 84092
His legacy of service, faith, and love will continue through the generations he leaves behind.
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