Born on October 21, 1934 in Scotland, MD, he was the son of the late George S. Purnell, Sr. and Rosetta Shuebrooks Purnell.
Mr. Purnell served his country in the United States Army retiring after 27 years of service. He received the Army Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry w/ Palm, Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Sharpshooter Qualification Badge and the European Occupational Medal. He was a member of the St. Luke?s United Methodist Church, Scotland, MD, and a Masonic Member of the St. Luke?s United Methodist Men?s Group. He was an avid fisherman.
He is survived by his wife Ottilie Purnell whom he married on April 3, 1981, a son, Ricky Edward Purnell, Sr. of Charlestown, WV, two sisters, Marie Young of St. Inigoes, MD and Henrietta Menchion of Lexington Park, MD, five brothers, George Purnell, William Purnell and John Purnell all of Baltimore, MD, Charles Purnell of Yorktown, VA and Robert Purnell, of Scotland, MD, three grandchildren and one great grandchild survive. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a sister, Mary Bernice Williams, and a brother, Louis Purnell.
Friends may call on Saturday, February 28, 2004 from 10:00 am until 11:00 am at the St. Luke?s United Methodist Church, Scotland, MD. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 am. The Reverend Leroy Boldley will officiate. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.
Arrangements provided by the Brinsfield Funeral Home, P.A. 22955 Hollywood Road, Leonardtown, MD.
