Born on January 31, 1922, in Attala County to James Homer and Ray Bell Burchfield, J.D. graduated from Ethel High School in 1941. While attending Holmes Junior College in 1942, he was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served with distinction in the Pacific Theater during World War II.
A recipient of the Purple Heart, J.D. fought in three pivotal battles that contributed to the Allied victory over Japan: The Battle of Attu in the U.S. Territory of Alaska, the Battle of Kwajalein in the Marshall Islands, and the Battle of Leyte in the Philippines. His service and sacrifice exemplified courage, resilience, and dedication to his country.
Following his honorable discharge in 1945, he enrolled at Mississippi State College, graduating in 1949. The following year, he married Nettie James Myres, and together they built a life in Choctaw County, where they raised their three sons, Mike, Phil, and Tim. He dedicated 35 years to the Farmers Home Administration, working to support local farmers and rural communities. After retiring, he enjoyed life on his farm near Ackerman before eventually moving to Clinton.
J.D. was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 63 years, Nettie Myres Burchfield, as well as his parents and siblings, Juanita, Ella Mae, Marie, Pauline, and James Lamar.
He is survived by two sisters, Gwendolyn Fleming and Betty Love; his sons, Mike (Patsy), Phil (Nita), and Tim (Drenett); his grandchildren, John (Lucie), Jodie (Corey), Teague (Robyn), Jay (Paige), Collin (Amanda), Piercen Burchfield, and Sydney (Mark); and 11 great-grandchildren.
A celebration of Mr. Burchfield’s life will be held at Ackerman Baptist Church in Ackerman, Mississippi, on Saturday, February 1. A visitation for friends will be held at 10:00 a.m., with a service following at 11:00 a.m. He will be laid to rest at Memorial Park Cemetery in Louisville, Mississippi, with a graveside service at noon.