Myrtle Purnell

Myrtle Evelyn Purnell was born on October 15, 1934, to the late Harry and Maggie Bell Napper of Henry County, Virginia. Myrtle was the second born of six children: Lenora, Harry Jr., Bernice, John, and Harvey. They were raised in Chestnut Knob, Virginia, on the family's 40 acres. Myrtle attended church with her family and was an active member of Holmes Memorial Presbyterian Church. She was educated in the Henry County Public School system. Myrtle later graduated from business school with a degree in Stenography. As an adult, Myrtle moved to Philadelphia, where she lived around the corner from First African Presbyterian Church. Myrtle joined the church and was a faithful member for more than 60 years. There she met and would later marry John Wesley Purnell on June 9, 1962. As an active member of the Church, Myrtle served as a deacon, Sunday School and VBS Teacher, sang in the gospel and sanctuary choirs, and led the children's choir. Her passion was to teach and reach children in the church and in the community. John and Myrtle bought a house in South Philadelphia. She became active in the community and schools. She was a member of the South West Center City Community organization, a group intent on improving their neighborhood. After her children John and Martin were born, Myrtle became a homemaker and also worked as a domestic worker and as a caregiver. While her sons where at William S. Pierce Elementary School, Myrtle served as president of the PTA and the Cub Scouts den mother. Myrtle was recognized by the YMCA for her community involvement. She was also the block captain for several years helping with block parties, clean-ups, street painting, and neighborhood watch. One of the most significant accomplishments of her life was seeing both of her sons graduate from college, get married, and have children. She enjoyed talking about her sons and showing off her grandchildren to her friends and church members in Philadelphia. Myrtle remained in Philadelphia after the passing of her husband John in 2009 supported by Mrs. Laura Forbes, her best friend of 60 years. A year later the onset of Alzheimer's was evident. Myrtle moved in and lived with Martin and John alternately. Myrtle helped around the house, enjoyed her grandchildren and attended church with her sons' families, where everyone loved her pleasant demeanor. She attended East Point Adult Daycare, Adult Care and Share in Charlotte, and Saint Mary’s Adult Medical Day Care. A special caregiver to Myrtle was Ms. Flora McQueen, who brought out Myrtle's fun side. Her caregivers always mentioned her smile and personality. Myrtle Evelyn Purnell is survived by her loving sons: John and Martin; brothers: John and Harvey Napper; sister Bernice Smith; five grandchildren: Miles, Ian, Maya, Micah, and Michael; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. Her lively and giving spirit will indeed be remembered and missed by all. Her internment will be at the Chestnut Knob Primitive Baptist Church cemetery, where she will be at eternal rest beside her parents in Virginia, which she always called home and came back to yearly throughout her life.