Gladys Purnell

Gladys Purnell was born on June 8, 1915 in Sweatman, Mississippi to the proud parents of Mr. & Mrs. Clinton Oliver. Gladys was called home in April 2, 2017 and she will be greatly missed by her many loved ones.

She confessed a hope in Christ at an early age at Center Hill A.M.E. Church. Gladys was married Twenty-six years to Mr. T.B. Purnell and in this union four children were born: Joe Purnell, Mary Hockett, George (Jeanette) Purnell, and Wallace (Leyra) Purnell. From these children Gladys has eleven wonderful grandchildren and host of great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Gladys later married Mr. Charlie Purnell. They were married thirty-five years until he preceded her in death.

Gladys was a busy grandmother keeping the grandchildren all summer and getting them to watch soap operas with her. Gladys loved spending time with her sisters Sara Purnell, Pearlean Conley, and Idella Farmer. She took pride in keeping a clean house. She was an excellent cook and an avid gardener. She planted a garden every spring. It consisted of rows of peas, beans, corn, greens, potatoes, cabbages, onions, tomatoes, and watermelons. At the end of the summer, she would can and bag these vegetables for the winter.

As time progressed, Gladys moved to Ohio to be close to her daughter, Mary Hockett and resided there for 13 years. In 2014, she moved to Chicago, IL near her son, George Purnell to receive more intense care. She developed relationships with Cynthia and Michelle Rankin as her caregivers.

*** Pastor Woodruff Ratliff, Officiating

Active Pallbearers
Stephan Marshall
Julian Paschal
Cyrus Purnell
Patrick Purnell

 Service Information