“ Cousin Bill” was My Grampa ( Charlie Purcell) nephew. I grew up hearing about “ Captain Cousin Bill. My Grampa was very proud of him. In June of 1990 I graduated Marine Corps Bootcamp Parris Island S.C. and he came as Admiral William Purcell in Dress Whites to my graduation. I didn’t salute, I said “ Hello Cousin Bill” he laughed whispered in my ear and said you might want to salute”. It was funny. He said to me then “ I’m proud of you Marine, be safe, dangerous world your in now, “ and he left. Last time I saw him. To his family my condolences, and to the man that served so so long wth such a distinguished career: To Admiral William Purcell, “ Fair Winds and following seas” RIP Cousin Bill. 
Kenneth Lance Purcell. 

To my uncle Bill's children and grandchildren, I extend my sincere sympathy.  I admired my uncle for his devotion to his family and respected him for his service to his country.  He and Betty made every family get together a delightful experience with their warmth and loving presence.  I will always be grateful to have been blessed with such an extraordinary uncle.


I will always remember how impressive Uncle Bill was in his dress uniform. Also , his many kindnesses extended to my Mother — Verna Roberts. She really loved Bill and his entire family .  She talked with him on the phone weekly for many years before her passing in 2006.   I  will always remember   Bill ( and Betty) — for their great senses of humor — and devotion to their family.  Bill was a very special man .  My best to his entire family .  Steve Roberts 

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Hardage-Giddens Riverside Funeral Home & Riverside Memorial Park

William Purcell

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William Clarence Purcell

7 January, 1931 – 14 January, 2020

Hardage-Giddens Riverside Funeral Home & Riverside Memorial Park

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