Carroll Eugene 'Sam' Purnell

But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as

eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

Isaiah 40: 31

Carroll Eugene Purnell, lovingly known as ‘Sam’, was born on Wednesday, December 20th, 1950, in Jackson, North Carolina, to the late Isom ‘Jack’ and Mary Helen Allen Pernell. He peacefully transitioned to eternal rest at home, surrounded by his family and friends, on Saturday, September 21st, 2024.

Sam was a devoted member of Allen Chapel A. M. E. Church in Jackson, where he served faithfully as head Trustee. His unwavering commitment to his church and community included countless hours spent maintaining the church and supporting its pastor.

A proud graduate of Gumberry High School in 1969, Sam further demonstrated his dedication to service by enlisting in the United States Army in 1970. He served two years, including a deployment to Vietnam, and continued his service in the Army Reserve until 1976. His military honors included the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, One Overseas Bar, and a Rifle Sharpshooter Badge.

Professionally, Sam began his career as a truck driver and mechanic at WP Morris Lumber Mill, later retiring from West Fraser Lumber Mill in Seaboard after over 20 years as an electrician supervisor. His commitment extended to the Seaboard Fire Department, where he served as a volunteer firefighter, and he held the position of President of the Piney Grove Hunting Club.

In his leisure time, Sam enjoyed traveling with his beloved wife Delois and friends, as well as family vacations. He was an avid farmer, fisherman, hunter, and master craftsman.

Sam was married to Barbara Williams, with whom he had three children: Shelton Eugene Purnell, Carroll Lamont Purnell, and Keisha Latrice Purnell, who preceded him in death. He was also a devoted grandfather to Juston and cherished his goddaughter, ShaRhonda Melvin. He spent countless hours teaching Shelton and Lamont the joys of fishing and hunting, instilling in them the importance of family. Although Keisha was taken too soon, she filled his life with immense joy and cherished memories.

In a beautiful reunion, Sam reconnected with his high school sweetheart, Delois Odom. Together, they shared 21 loving years of marriage, welcoming two bonus daughters, Fanisha Long-Solomon (Alfred) and Christie Long, both of Durham, North Carolina, along with five beloved grandchildren: Jalen, Cierra, Ryan, Ashton, and Bryson, who affectionately called him “Papa.”

Sam is survived by his wife Delois; sons Shelton (Kendra) and Lamont; grandson Juston; goddaughter ShaRhonda Melvin; and his siblings: Willie Pernell (Virginia), Thomas Pernell (Shirley), Kenneth Pernell (Lillie) all of Jackson, North Carolina, Mazel Pernell of Silver Spring, Maryland, Mary P. Harris of Morrisville, North Carolina, Darlene Pernell-Bunkley (Angelo) of Laurel, Maryland, Angela Pernell of Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina and Lisa P. Hamm (Ron) of Ashburn, Virginia (a niece reared as a sister); mother-in-law, Georgia Jerman of Jackson, North Carolina; a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and many friends.

Sam’s legacy of love, service, and dedication to family and community will forever be cherished.

Relatives and Friends are encouraged to visit Mr. Purnell's  tribute wall to share memories, extend condolences and to order floral tributes, as sentiments to the family. 

The Caring Team of T. L. Faison's Funeral Care, LLC is privileged to provide

"Professional Care, With Dignity & Integrity" 

to the family of Mr. Carroll Eugene 'Sam' Purnell.

We ask that you unite with us in remembering the family in both thought and prayer. 

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