Purcell Whitsel died on Sunday Sept 25, 2016 following a brief illness. He was born in Carnesville, Georgia to Alice Franklin Whitsel and James Crawford Whitsel, Sr. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Agnes B. Whitsel, his daughter Randi Jones, Ph.D., his grandchildren, Dessaray Whitsel and John Whitsel, his great grandson, Conner Beall, his daughter in law, Shirley Whitsel, his sister, Elise Hawkins, and a number of nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his son, Purcell Whitsel, Jr.

Mr. Whitsel attended Air University, University of New Mexico, Macon State University, and University of Georgia. He was a graduate of Mercer University with a Bachelors Degree as well as completion of postgraduate studies at Mercer.

He retired from the US Air Force following 21 years of service after which he served for 28 years as Senior Counselor with the Georgia State Department of Human Resources.

Purcell has many long-standing friends from various phases of his life. He and Agnes, the love of his life, had many adventures both throughout the US and abroad. Purcell, an avid gardener, shared his garden's bounty with friends and family. Purcell loved the Atlanta Braves, rarely missing a game in season. He was a good community citizen, having served as Scout Master for the Boy Scouts of America, actively participated in the activities of Cherokee Heights United Methodist Church, and later at Riverside United Methodist Church. He lived fully and well.

A memorial service will be held Saturday at the Macon Memorial Park Chapel, 3969 Mercer University Dr., Macon, GA 31204 at 11:00 AM. A private burial will immediately follow the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be donated to Riverside United Methodist Church, 735 Pierce Ave, Macon, GA, 31204 or the donor's favorite charity.

Visit www.maconmp.com to express tributes.

Macon Memorial Park Funeral Home & Cemetery is in charge of arrangements.

1927 - 2016

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Published by Athens Banner-Herald on Sep. 27, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for Purcell Whitsel

10 Entries

Lisa Cucci

October 18, 2016

Agnes please know that you are in our hearts and in our prayers. I'm sure it is tough without your side kick but I know you must also be at peace knowing he is watching down over you and the girls. Please take care of yourself and know that you both are loved and highly regarded by the Roberts family. With love, Lisa Roberts Cucci

Chuck and Margie Grace

October 1, 2016

Mrs. Whitsel and Randi, we were so sorry to hear of Mr. Whitsel's death. You both were so kind to my mom and dad, and they both cherished their friendship with you. You are all in our prayers.
Chuck and Margie Grace

October 1, 2016

You know what they say about making good first impressions, Purcell was that way all the time. I worked with him for many and will quote my father's description of someone he really like, Purcell was "good people", without a doubt.

Teddy Ford, Lizella, GA.

Tammie Whitsel

September 29, 2016

Aunt Agnes,
My sympathies to you, Randi and all Uncle Purcell's grands. I have such fond memories from my childhood of Uncle Purcell and your whole family. His smile and that laugh were so infectious. May your memories and God's love surround you during this time of loss.
With love,
Tammie Whitsel

Robert Rogers

September 28, 2016

What a good friend Purcell was to me and other counselors that served with him in Vocational Rehabilitation. We also served together as members of the Roosevelt/Warm Springs Advisory Committee where we further developed our friendship. He was a good counselor and a good man. Rest in peace, my friend.

Terry & Bobby Bell

September 28, 2016

Mr Whitsel was a good man! Loved when I would go over to see his son Percy and talk to Mr & Mrs Whitsel.I am so sorry for the family's loss of their loved one.May God and time bring you peace!!

Betty Parker

September 28, 2016

Purcell was one of the sweetest most GENTLEmen I have ever had the pleasure of knowing..
My prayers to the love of his life, Agnes....and all his family..

Joe Haselden

September 28, 2016

With great sadness I learned of Purcell's passing. He was a true gentleman, providing wise and patient counseling to many, including myself. I was privileged to work alongside of him, and we shared many good experiences about travel, work, and the Air Force. Gentle and kind, he always exemplified the Christian walk through life and I shall miss him.

September 28, 2016

Dear Agnes,
I am so sad to learn of the passing of your lifelong love and partner.....you will miss him terribly.....caring! Mardi Bass

John Kelley

September 27, 2016

Condolences to the family and friends of Purcell. We worked together many years at the Georgia Department of Vocational Rehabilitation and I always enjoyed his company. Many times I relied on his wisdom and advise and always considered him a good friend. May he rest in eternal peace and his family take great comfort in the memory of a wonderful Christian man.

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