On Wednesday February 9, 2022 James Burton Spurgeon, 85, of New London went home to be with the Lord. He was surrounded by family. He was born in rural Northern Missouri on April 13, 1936, the fifth of seven children to Raymond and Delpha Horn Spurgeon.
James served in the Airforce from April 3rd 1956 to November 5th 1959 stationed at Hickman Airforce Base in Hawaii. He was an aviation mechanic and ended his career as an Airman 1st class.
On June 17th 1961 he married Patricia Huggins in Centerville, Iowa; she died July 25, 2020.
He was employed as a mechanic at the Davis County School bus barn. After a move to the New London area he started employment at the IAAP, then was offered to join Leaseway Transportation as a mechanic and branch manager. When Leaseway Transportation moved to Minnesota he returned to IAAP and retired from there.
He enjoyed playing cards at the VFW, working on small engines and large farm equipment, and getting caught up on local gossip at the Jet Stop breakfast club. His favorite activity was handing out popsicles to his great grandchildren and he loved spending time with his family.
Survivors include his children, Belinda Conner of New London, Debra (Bob) Thomas of Illinois, and Jeffrey Spurgeon of New London; three grandchildren Whitney (Chris) Amburn and Cody Conner both of New London, and Peyton (Evelynn) Thomas of Colorado; seven great grandchildren Zander, Ryker, Trinity, and Scarlett Amburn, Blake and Finley Conner, and Calvin Thomas; one brother Ronald Spurgeon of Wilton, Iowa; one sister Beverly (John) Gillaspie of Williamsburg, Iowa; nieces, nephews, and brothers-in-law.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 59 years; granddaughter Sarah Conner; great- granddaughter Gracelyn Amburn; brothers Verlin and Lowell; and sisters Lois McCormick and Roma Spurgeon.
According to his wishes his body has been cremated. A graveside inurnment with Military Rites by the Henry County Honor Guard will be held at 11:00 AM, April 23, 2022 in Burge Cemetery, New London. A Celebration of Life will be held immediately following the service at the New London VFW. A memorial has been established. Elliott Chapel, New London, is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.elliottfuneralchapel.com