JERRY PURNELL, 81, of Crisfield, died Tuesday, March 8, 2011 at McCready Memorial Hospital in Crisfield.

Born in Crisfield October 10, 1929, he was the son of the late Marvin Randall "Nuke" Purnell and Ruth Justice Simpkins.

He received his diploma while in the US Navy from Bolles Military Academy, and furthered his education at the University of MD College Park.

He was a welder for the former Dresser Industries in Salisbury where he worked 28 years before his retirement.

He was a member of the First Baptist Church, Crisfield Elks Lodge and Stanley Cochrane Post #16 American Legion, all Crisfield. He was also a licensed plumber. He enjoyed gardening, building furniture, and working on his computer.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Shirley Parks Purnell of Crisfield; three children, Ron Purnell and wife Kathy of Crisfield, Ginger Purnell of Pensacola, Florida, and Shelly Byrd and husband Mike of Crisfield; four grandchildren, R.J. Purnell, Melissa Purnell, Ryan Byrd and Brandi Riggin, all of Crisfield; and several great-grandchildren and other relatives.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Geri Louise Purnell on February 15, 1994.

Funeral services will be Friday, March 11, 2011 at 11 AM at Bradshaw & Sons Funeral Home in Crisfield where friends may call one hour prior. The Rev. Bob Daniels will officiate. Interment will be in Asbury Cemetery.

To send condolences to the family, please visit www.bradshawandsonsfuneralhome.com