Thelma Catherine (Spence) Purnell

Salisbury-Thelma Catherine Purnell, 96, formerly of Berlin, died Wednesday, November 6, 2019, at Baycare Assisted Living in Salisbury, MD.

Born in Newark, she was the daughter of the late Horace R. and Minnie (Tingle) Spence. Her late husband, Floyd George Purnell died in 1991.

She was graduated from the former Worcester High School. Upon graduation, she received a Teacher’s Certificate. She taught first through third grade at the former Original Cedar Chapel Elementary School, (Patey Wood), Newark, MD. She also worked for Bunting Nursery and the former Newark Tomato Factory.

She was a lifelong member of Calvary United Methodist Church, where she served as a member of the Steward Board, Usher Board, Choir member, and various other organizations in the church.

Her survivors include three children: Catherine (Gary) Jones of Severn, MD, Floyd Jr. (Elsie) of Berlin, and John Purnell of Powellville, MD; twelve grandchildren, several great and great-great-grandchildren; one brother: Robert Spence of Pocomoke, MD and a host of nieces and nephews.

A daughter: Drucilla Purnell and six siblings preceded her in death.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, November 15, 2019, at Calvary United Methodist Church in Berlin, where friends may view one hour prior to service.

Interment will be in the church cemetery.         

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