Auburn "Sherman" Puryear, Jr.

Auburn "Sherman" Puryear, Jr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and cherished member of the Newark community, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 24, 2025, at the age of 77. Born on a tranquil Tuesday in Uriah, Alabama, Auburn's life journey was one characterized by dedication, service, and love.

Sherman honorably served his country as a supply sergeant in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, embodying strength and patriotism. He carried this dedication into his career, spending 19 diligent years as a Gyro Technician at the Newark Airforce Base. He also worked as a security officer at COTC for many years. Auburn was deeply respected by his colleagues for his technical expertise and camaraderie.

A proud alumnus, Sherman was recognized by the Central Ohio League in 1967 in football at Newark High School, graduating in 1967. His passion for sports continued throughout his life as an avid Ohio State Buckeye fan. Auburn's love for life extended beyond sports; he found joy in singing, playing the piano, and practicing karate. Known for his warm and welcoming demeanor, Auburn never met a stranger, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he encountered. Sherman was a member of Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 37 years, Ramona S. (Collins) Puryear, whom he married on August 8, 1987. Auburn's legacy lives on through his five daughters: Shemikka (Lloyd III) Young, Amanda Greenwald, Kassidy Puryear, Shaquita Puryear, and Mary (Harley) Miller. He will be fondly remembered by his sisters Margaret Crumpton and Karen (Donnie) Bowen; brothers Curtis (Virginia) Puryear, Ralph Puryear, and Greg Williams; and his granddaughters Jazmin, Keiley, Lyric, Rhythm and Kitana; brothers-in-law, Fred (Tammy) Collins and Ted (Judy) Collins. Auburn also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Auburn Puryear, Sr., and Ida Bell Puryear; his sister, Etna Faye Puryear; sister-in-law, Cassandra Williams; and brother-in-law, Roosevelt Crumpton.

Family and friends are invited to honor Sherman's life at a visitation on Friday, April 4, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Criss Wagner Hoskinson Funeral Home, 179 Granville Street, Newark, OH, where a funeral service celebrating his remarkable life will follow at 12:00 p.m., with Rev. Mario Williams officiating.

A graveside service will be held at a later date at Cedar Hill Cemetery, where military honors will be observed by the Licking County Veteran's Alliance.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Criss Wagner Hoskinson Funeral & Cremation Service, where Auburn will be lovingly remembered and missed by all who knew him.