James Purcell Sr.

Reverend James Irvin Purcell Sr, 90, went to his heavenly home, Saturday, June 19, 2010 after an extended illness. He passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family and friends. Rev. Purcell was an ordained Southern Baptist minister of the gospel and pastored several local churches in his 50 + years in the ministry. He was a native of Tattnall County and a member of Elza Baptist Church. He was an alumnus of Glennville High School, Mercer University and Southeastern Seminary at Wake Forest N.C. where he graduated in May of 1962 with a bachelor of Divinity Degree. He retired from Civil Service at Ft. Stewart and was a proud Veteran of World War II. He served in the 15th Army Air Corps serving with the 98th Bomber Group (H) 343rd Bomber Squadron. He was an engineer and gunner on a B-24 bomber where he saw action in Italy and Germany, successfully completing 48 missions over enemy territory. He was a part of the famous "Pyramidiers", the first official bomb group in combat, and was in action from July 1942 until April 1945. He is preceded in death by his parents, Enoch and Mary Purcell, brother and sister in law, Eugene and Gainell Purcell, a granddaughter, Merriam Natividad Purcell.
He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Merriam P. Purcell of Glennville
Daughter and son in law, Karen and Randy Walker of Glennville
Sons and daughters in law, James Jr., (Jimmy) and Norma Purcell of Prattville, AL.
Ronald and Denise Purcell of Destin, FL.
Brother and sister in law, Leeroy and Mary Purcell of Glennville
Grandchildren, Stephanie McWilliams (John), Charles Walker, James Purcell, Norma Kidd (Chris), Great Granddaughter, Haleigh McWilliams of Glennville, Several cousins, nieces and nephews also survive.