Vincent Joseph “VJ” Purpera Jr. a lifelong resident of Ascension Parish, passed away on Saturday, December 30, 2023, at the age of 89. He was affectionately known by his family and friends as “VJ”. He grew up in the family business and owned and operated Purpera & Sons Lumber for many years. Through his company, he forged lifelong friendships with clients and contractors. He cherished all his friends and was one of the kindest and warmest people you could meet. VJ was an avid hunter and fisherman with a passion for the outdoors. He especially enjoyed spending time with family at his camp in Mississippi. He treasured his family above all. He was the most loving father and grandfather, and a devoted husband to his wife, Mary for over 66 years. VJ will be dearly missed by his wife, Mary Trabeau Purpera; daughter, Rhonda Purpera, 2 sons, Darrell Purpera and wife Terri, and Blane Purpera and wife Amy; 8 grandchildren, Shane and Alicia Morton, Vince, Mikhail, Nicholas, Angelo and Fiella Purpera, and Jeana Rowan; and 3 great-grandchildren, Nolan and Ava Rowan and Sofia Purpera. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vincent J. Purpera, Sr. and Irene Oubre Purpera; his daughter, Nancy Kathleen Purpera Morton; brother, James Dale Purpera; and sister, Betty Purpera Vavasseur. Visitation for VJ will be held on Thursday, January 4, 2024, at New River Baptist Church, 45270 Hwy 429, St Amant, LA 70774 from 9 AM till the funeral service at 11 AM. He will be laid to rest at Hope Haven Mausoleum, Gonzales, La. Serving as pallbearers are, Shane Morton, Vince Purpera, Nicholas Purpera, Mack Delaune, David Glatt, and Peter Lee Green, Honorary pallbearer is Clarence Johnson.
