Jesse Britton “J.B.” Durkey, age 83 of Troy, passed away Thursday, April 20, 2017. J.B. was born May 4, 1933 in Ashland, KY to his mother Josephine Fraley and was helped raised by a devoted aunt, Madge Centers, who he called “Mommie”. He always said he had two mothers.

He leaves behind a loving wife of 54 years, Betty, four children: Debra (Earl) Miller of Cincinnati and Elizabeth (Mike) Farley of Luciedale, MS from his first marriage, and Teresa (Mark) Beatty of Oregonia and David Durkey of Troy from his marriage to Betty; nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by grandson Sean Beatty.

His mother signed for him to quit school and join the Marine Corps in 1951. He took his Basic Training at Parris Island and then served in the Korean Conflict. After 3 ½ years, he was honorably discharged in 1955. J.B. was employed by General Motors and worked at Delco Moraine for 37 ½ years, retiring in 1992.  J.B. grew up with a Christian mother. As a child while outside playing, his playmate mentioned to J.B. he heard a loud voice coming from his house. J.B. said “Oh, that’s just my mother praying” and continued to play.

The family wishes to thank the Hospice of Miami County for their care and devotion, especially Haley, Michelle, and Shannon.

A funeral service will be held 1:00PM Thursday, April 27, 2017 at J.B and Betty’s residence: 2315 Shenandoah Dr. Troy with Elder Freddie Preston, Moderator of the United Baptist Church in Fairborn officiating. Visitation will be 1hr. prior to the service at the home. Memorial contributions may be given to Hospice of Miami County: PO Box 502 Troy, OH 45373. Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery, West Milton, with Military Honor’s by the Veteran’s Memorial Honor Guard of Troy. Arrangements entrusted to Fisher-Cheney Funeral Home, Troy.
 

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