James Purkerson "Jimmy" Young, 95, of Greenville, formerly of Columbia, died Saturday, May 24, 2014. Born in Greenwood County on July 19, 1918 he was a son of the late Benjamin Maxwell and Mattie Mae Purkerson Young. Mr. Young was a WWII veteran of the US Navy from 1941 – 1947. While on a stateside trip home, he would marry his "Baby" and the love of his life, Margaret Kelly on May 28, 1945. Following the war, Jimmy returned home to his bride and operated his own business in Columbia building and refinishing furniture. James was an active member of Park Street Baptist Church and the Lions Club, as well as the Shriners and the Masons. In 2006 he was inducted into the Lions Club Hall of Fame. Following Margaret's death in 2004, he made his home at Rolling Green Village in Greenville.

Survivors include his sister, Alma Brooks "Brooksie" Young Jones of Clemson. In addition to his parents, Mr. Young was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years; brothers, Benjamin M. Young, Jr., John C. Young, and Roy N. Young.

A graveside service for Mr. Young will be held at 1 o'clock, Wednesday, May 28th at Elmwood Cemetery, 501 Elmwood Avenue, Columbia. The family will receive friends following the service from 2 until 3 o'clock at Park Street Baptist Church. Memorials may be made to Park Street Baptist Church, 2204 Park Street, Columbia, SC 29201 or to The Lions Club of SC, 200 Outlet Point Blvd., Columbia, SC 29210.