PURNELL ADDISON STURGIS, JR.
Deacon Purnell Addison Sturgis, Jr. was born November 13, 1938 in Accomack County to the late Purnell and Catherine Sturgis. Purnell peacefully transitioned from labor to reward on August 5, 2019 at his home. He was educated in the public school system of Accomack County.
He accepted Christ as his personal Savior at an early age but later in life he rededicated his life to Christ at the New Mount Zion Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Willie A. Carter. Purnell became a dedicated and active member singing in the choir, attending Sunday School, served as the Church Custodian and on June 30, 1989 his name was submitted for a Deacon. He was later ordained and remained active until his demise.
On August 29, 1961, he married the love of his life, Ethel Rogers and to this union God blessed them with two sons, Dave and Carl. As life partners, Purnell and Ethel spent many happy years together. In addition to farming, he worked as a custodian, workman and landscaper. Purnell believed that a man must always provide for his family and he was willing to do just that. A loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend was he. He just loved people. He was treasured for his hearty laugh, helpfulness, kindness, compassion and cooperative spirit.
Beautiful memories of Purnell will be cherished by his devoted and loving wife of 57 years, Ethel; sons: Carl Sturgis of PA, Dave Sturgis of Germany and Lynwood Harmon of Painter, VA; daughter-in-law: Valarie Sturgis of Keller, VA; grandchildren: Dave, Jr., Shameka, Joey, Nicole and Tony; great-grandchildren: On’Janae Sledge, Kevante, DaShawn, Anijha, Ja’vion, Malik and Taki Sturgis; great-great-grandchild Ma’Kylah Pinkard; sisters: Edna Coles of Painter, VA, Georgia Mae Harmon of Woodbridge, VA, Juanita Sturgis and Annie Sturgis Reed of Painter, VA; sisters-in-laws: Louise Harmon and Corine Sturgis of Painter, VA; aunts: Annie Sample, Martha Sample, Sarah Bullair and Catherine Simmon; godson: Marvelous Jubilee of Belle Haven, VA; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends including the New Mount Zion Baptist Church family and community.
In addition to his parents Purnell and Catherine Sturgis, Sr., Purnell was preceded in death by two brothers: Julius Harmon and Preston Sturgis, Jr.
