Joseph Pugh Durham Jr.

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Joseph cherished his Durham family and his relationship with the Lord.

Joseph Pugh Durham, Jr. was born on January 9, 1946 and passed from this life on August 26, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of deep faith and a love for family that was at the heart of who he was.

Joseph spent his childhood in Minneapolis, Minnesota, before making his way to Louisiana, where he attended Northeast Louisiana State College (now the University of Louisiana Monroe) and Odessa College where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree. He served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam era. His professional years were spent as a sports journalist in the Ark-La-Tex.

Joe had many interests that brought him joy. Among those were classical music, movies, television westerns, and football. But above all his interests, Joseph cherished his Durham family and his relationship with the Lord. His faith was an important part of his life, and he was a member of Parkview Baptist Church where he worshipped faithfully as long as his health allowed.

In his later years, Joseph chose to remain close to his family in West Monroe. There, he lived a peaceful and quiet life. His constant companion and best friend was his beloved cat, Bon, who shared those quiet days with him.

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His constant companion and best friend was his beloved cat, Bon, who shared those quiet days with him.

Joseph will be remembered for his love of family, his faith, and the simple, meaningful life he chose to live. Though his life was quiet, the love he gave to those around him was lasting and profound.

He was proceeded in death by his parents Joseph P. Durham and Claudia Sheppard Durham and an infant brother. He leaves behind many cousins.

He now rests in the peace of the Lord, reunited with those who have gone before him, and forever held in the hearts of the family he loved so dearly

Graveside services for Mr. Durham will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, August 29, 2026 at Sardis Cemetery with Reverend Chad James officiating. Services are in care of Southern Funeral Home of Winnfield.

Friends may send messages of condolences to the family by visiting southernfuneralhome.com