James C. Pursley, 73, of Spencer, died Sunday, July 15, 2012 at his home.

He was born July 16, 1938, in Spencer, a son of the late Emory O. and Velma Somerville Pursley. James was a retired equipment operator with the I.U.O.E. Local 132, Charleston. He enjoyed horseback riding and working on the family farm. He was also a great and loving grandfather.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two granddaughters, Faith Cottrell, and Hope Cottrell.

He is survived by his wife, Virginia Shreve Pursley, of Spencer; son, Jimmy Pursley and his wife Kim, of Whitewood, Virginia; daughter, Jamie Cottrell and her husband Rick, of Gandeeville; grandson, Dakota James Pursley of Spencer; brother, Roy Pursley of Grantsville; sister, Madge Gainer,of Ohio; and several nieces and nephews. He is also survived by a very special nephew, Rodney Parrill, of Ohio.

Private funeral services will be held for the family Thursday, July 19, at John H. Taylor Funeral Home, Spencer, with Kevin Shreve officiating. Burial will follow in Eventide Cemetery, Spencer.

There will be a public visitation Wednesday, from 6-8pm at the funeral home.

Condolences may be expressed online at www.taylorfuneralhomeinc.com