Debbie Purcell

Debra “Debbie” Lee Purcell, 66, of Englewood passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 21, 2024. She was born at Sibley Memorial Hospital in Washington, DC, was a former resident of Prince Frederick, MD and current resident of Englewood, TN. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Alfred Mitchell Purcell, and her father, Richard Anthony Burnett. 

Debbie was a member of Mt. Harmony Baptist Church in Niota, TN. She retired in 2016 from Covington and Burling law firm in Washington, DC, after 29 years of exemplary service as a legal secretary.

Debbie loved the Lord Jesus and put Him first every day and in all things. She was a beautiful, kind and precious person, with an infectious smile and an earnest desire to help others in need. She enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her three grandsons and friends. Debbie was kind and thoughtful; meticulously remembering every birthday and anniversary with a card or gift. She was selfless and giving to others brought her great joy. Debbie always wanted each person to feel valued and appreciated for the unique person God made them to be. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Debbie was a devoted wife to Mitchell for 45 years and a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend. She is survived by her daughter, Carolyn A. Purcell of Englewood, TN, son, Robert M. Purcell and daughter-in-law, Angela Purcell and three wonderful grandchildren, Wyatt, Easton, and Isaiah Purcell of Niota, TN; Patricia Bly Burnett (mother) of Georgetown, DE, Richard Burnett Jr. (brother) and Lisa of Deale, MD, Judy Jarboe (sister) and Donald of Deale, MD, and Stacy Owens (sister) and Frank of Lothian, MD, as well as may nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, January 27, 2024 at Mt. Harmony Baptist Church, with Pastor Stanley Hammonds officiating. Interment will follow at Mt. Harmony Baptist Church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 12:00 -2:00pm, prior to the service at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Harmony Baptist Church, c/o Debbie Purcell. Those unable to attend may send condolences to https://www.laycock-hobbs.com/obituaries/debbie-purcell 

Laycock-Hobbs funeral home in Athens is in charge of the arrangements.