Purcell Family of America

John William Purcell, 97, of James City County died peacefully on Friday, Feb. 4, 2011, at the Gardens of Warwick Forest in New­port News after a short illness, with his family by his side.

He was born in Glouces­ter County, the oldest of six children of Olive R. and Irving W. Purcell. Mr. Purcell lived most of his years in James City County. At the time of his death, he was the oldest living member of Lebanon Christian Church in Lee Hall.

He started his work career at 12 years of age, working on the farm of Coleman Curtis in James City County. He retired in 1979 as the plant manager for D.C. Curtis Inc., located on Water Street in Yorktown, after working for the Curtis Family for 53 years.

His most important job, however, that of a loving father, will forever be cherished by his daughters, Shirley and Janet.

Mr. Purcell is survived by his daughters, Shirley Howard (Robert) of Williamsburg and Janet Hamm (George) of Seaford; grand­daughters, Jane Howard of Charlottesville, Theresa Robertson of Richmond, Kelly Harriss of Williamsburg, CW2 Jennifer Hamm of Seaford, and Julie Harris of Dandy; 10 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grand­children; and his sister, Grace Purcell West.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 68 years, Elizabeth Lindsey Purcell; his daughter, Ruth Arlene Purcell; his great-granddaughter, Stella Paige Harriss; his brothers, Woodrow and Homer Purcell; and his sisters, Eloise M. Purcell and Edith P. Newman.

A celebration of his life was held on Tuesday, Feb. 8, at Lebanon Christian Church in Newport News. Burial was private in Peninsula Memorial Park.

Memorial donations may be made to Riverside Hospice, 12420 Warwick Boulevard, Suite 6E, Newport News VA 23606; or the Building Fund, Lebanon Christian Church, 409 Yorktown Rd., Newport News VA 23603. Arrangements by Amory Funeral Home, Grafton.