George Lee Purnell

George Lee Purnell, age 91, of Terrell, Texas passed away on Tuesday, January 26, 2021 with family at his side. George was born December 27, 1929 in Dallas, Texas to Carl and Lydia Purnell both of whom preceded him in death along with his wife Evelyn Lee Purnell, niece, Doris Hugley, sister, Nanny Hugley and great grandson, Carter Rylan Purnell.

George graduated from Sunset High School in Oakcliff, Texas, class of 1947 and studied at the University of North Texas. In 1953 he married the love of his life Evelyn Lee and they were married for 56 years. George proudly served in four different branches of the United States Military including the Navy, Marines, Air Force and Army National Guard where he retired in 1989 as Command Sgt. Major. He was also a lifetime member of the National Guard Association. George served the Dallas community for 25 years as a Dallas Police Officer from 1955-1980. He was a member of The Gideons International, The American Legion and also a Mason for 60 years. He was a devoted and faithful member of First Christian Church in Terrell, Texas for many years. George was a licensed Ham Radio Operator for 65 years. Among those titles and roles he was first a loving husband, devoted father, grandfather, great grandfather, and a very good friend to those who knew him best.

George is survived by his three children: Michael Lee Purnell and wife Debbie, Denise Purnell Smiley and husband Tom and Wendy Purnell Akin and husband Richard; seven grandchildren: Cobie Burns, Matthew Smiley, Nathan Purnell, Kevin Smiley, Malori Akin, Katy Williams and Justin Williams; fourteen great grandchildren: Jackson Smiley, Jillian Smiley, Regan Purnell, Pierson Smiley, Kennedy Purnell, Lauren Burns, Ella Burns, Kason Smiley, Grant Purnell, Coleson Smiley, Harper Wooten, Tatum Akin, Lillie Wooten and Piper Hill along with other family and friends who will miss him dearly.

A visitation for George will be held Wednesday, February 3, 2021 from 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM at First Christian Church, 405 N Adelaide St, Terrell, Texas. A celebration of life will immediately follow at 11:00 AM followed by a military graveside service at 2:00 PM at Restland Cemetery, 13005 Greenville Ave, Dallas, Texas where he will be laid to rest by his wife.

In lieu of flower please make donations to The American Cancer Society.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.andersonclaytonterrell.com for the Purnell family.