BERLIN – Hilton R. Purnell, Sr. (Hilt), 75 of Berlin died Friday, September 19, 2014 at Berlin Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

Born in Whaleysville, MD, he was the son of the late John Jarmon and Diana "Anna" Purnell.

He was a 1957 graduate of the former Worcester High School.

He was a member of New Bethel U.M. Church in Berlin where he served as an Usher, member of the Tri-State Men's Group and the United Methodist Men.  His civic involvement included member of Germantown School Community Heritage Center, member and Past Master of Lincoln Lodge #53, F&AM, P.H.A. of Berlin, MD and member of the Sons of the American Legion, Duncan Showell Post #231, Berlin.

He retired from Assateague Island State Park's maintenance department.

His survivors include his wife: Shirley Marie Purnell of Berlin; eight children: James (Pastina) Tingle, Hilton (Carolyn) Purnell, Jr., Olivia Ayres, all of Berlin; Rev. Lyonell (Maria) Purnell, Sr. of Snow Hill; Jerome Ayres of Clarksville, DE, Annette and Karen Purnell both of Salisbury and Rosalyn Ayres of Laurel, DE; thirteen grandchildren; nineteen great grandchildren; two sisters: Carolyn Purnell and Mollie (Valorous) Marshall, both of Berlin, MD; two sisters-in-law and several nieces and nephews.

A sister: Doris Webb preceded him on May 10, 2014.

A funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, September 27, 2014 at New Bethel U.M. Church in Berlin where friends may view two hours prior to service.  Interment will be in St. Paul U.M. Church Cemetery in Berlin.  Fraternal rites will be held at 1:00 p.m.

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