Kathleen E. Purnell, loving, spiritual person
Kathleen E. Purnell passed away peacefully Tuesday, July 9, 2024, in Milford. She was born Nov. 11, 1941, in Showell, Md., beloved daughter of the late Moses and Margie (Mumford) Purnell.
Kathleen dedicated over 26 years of her life to Beebe Hospital, working diligently in the environmental services department. Her commitment and hard work were evident to all who knew her. She was a faithful member of Dagsboro Church of God, where she found solace and strength in her spirituality. She was faithful and committed to her calling as an intercessory prayer warrior.
In her free time, Kathleen enjoyed sewing and found great joy in listening to spiritual music and the preached word of God. She cherished every moment spent with her family and had a special affection for her granddogs, who brought immense joy to her life. Kathleen's love for her family was immeasurable and extended near and far. She leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and kindness.
Kathleen was preceded in death by her loving parents, Moses and Margie Purnell; daughter, Dorothy Harper; and son, Paris Johnson III; and 10 siblings.
She is survived by her devoted children, Leticia Purnell-Wright (Daniel), Aretha Ellis (Edward), Denise Todd (James), Sabrina Balentine, Lelene Johnson, Bernard Flamer (Gloria) and Michael Flamer (Patricia), her brother, Robert Purnell; her sister-in-law, Naomi Purnell-Westcott; and one aunt, Elizabeth Mumford. She will be dearly missed by her beloved granddogs, Apollo, Soloman and Sammi, as well as by many nieces, nephews, and friends who had the privilege of knowing her.
A funeral service to honor and celebrate Kathleen's life will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, July 19, at Watson Funeral Home, Millsboro, with a visitation for family and friends from 9 to 11 a.m. Interment will immediately follow at Henlopen Memorial Park.
Kathleen E. Purnell will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her loving spirit, and the warmth she brought to everyone around her. She will be forever in our hearts.
Visit Ms. Purnell’s Life Memorial webpage at watsonfh.com.
