Mary Louise Purnell

Mary Louise Purnell

May 11, 1942 - December 20, 2021

Mary Louise Purnell of Newark, DE passed away on December 20, 2021, at home with her husband and children. She was born May 11, 1942 in Wilmington, DE to the late William and Marion Wilkerson. From this union, she is one of sixteen children.

Mary received her early education in the public schools of Wilmington, Delaware. She graduated from Howard High School in Wilmington, Delaware. Mary was a High School Debutante. She also enjoyed being a Majorette. Mary worked as a secretary for the courts. Later on, she worked for W.L. Gore Inc. until she retired.

Mary married Australia Wayne Purnell, they were blessed in having 57 years together. Raising their three children. She was a loving, supportive homemaker. Her husband and children wanted for nothing. She humbly gave all of herself covering them with love. She became Grandma to 7 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren who affectionately call her "GG".

Mary loved to sing and dance. She played the piano. Music was a great joy of hers. She had a singing voice that would melt your heart. Singing became part of her daily.

Mary was very crafty, very good with her hands. She was very giving and teaching of her talents. She loved to see you smile. She loved knitting and crocheting. Mary enjoyed all types of yard work with her husband. They enjoyed landscaping. They loved gardening together. They enjoyed planting fruits, vegetables, bushes and trees. When duty was called on her, together with her husband they wasted no time helping others. Mary filled her home and yard with her “plant babies” she called them. She also enjoyed antique shopping for hours on end with her husband.

Cleanliness was a priority in everything in her life. She was a great cook, leaving behind many delicious recipes of her own.

Mary enjoyed spending time with her large family who affectionately called her "Weeze", enjoying get-togethers, cookouts, family reunions, jam sessions and all.

Mary was blessed by receiving more family. She dedicated her life to serve Jehovah God along with her husband, becoming a baptized Jehovah's Witness in 1987. She leaves cherished memories with her family of faith. Her dear friends.\ary was preceded in death by her parents, 1 Aunt Evelyn Hinton of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Eight brothers, Lemuel Winchester, William, Preston, Oscar Leroy, Courtland, Joseph, Harrison and George Wilkerson; Five sisters, Florence J Wright, Barbara A Frazier, Marion Brown, Mildred Kinslow, Iris Jolly.

Mary is survived by her husband Australia Wayne Purnell having 57 years of matrimony. Her three children, Carla E Bradley (Kevin), Wayne M Purnell (Michelle), Charis A Nelson (Martel); Her Siblings, Norman Wilkerson, Ida Mae Washington; 7 grandchildren, Steven, Robert, Sheris, Sharis, Cheris, Wayne Jr, Tierra; 6 great-grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

There will be a Memorial Service for Mary L Purnell held on, Thursday January 13, 2022 located at 31 W 31st St. Wilmington, DE 19802    There will be a viewing beginning at 9-11am. The service will begin at 11 am with only the Immediate Family in attendance. All are welcome to watch the memorial on Facebook.  Interment, Delaware Veterans Cemetery, 2465 Chesapeake City Road Bear, DE 19701.

*All Attendees Must Wear A Mask* TO VIEW THE SERVICES PLEASE GO TO : https://www.Facebook.com/bellfuneralhomede