Thomas C. Purcell

Thomas C. Purcell, 79, of North Port, FL, a retired Worcester Police Lieutenant, died Wednesday, May 28, 2008, in Florida, after a long illness. He leaves his wife of 60 years, Phyllis A. (Buduo) Purcell; 3 sons, Thomas P. Purcell and his wife Kathleen of Oxford, Robert A. Purcell and his wife Roberta of Barrington, RI, James P. Purcell and his wife Virginia of Mendon; a daughter, Eileen A. Shanahan and her husband Ron of Rutland; 10 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Six brothers, Jeremiah T. Purcell, Timothy P. Purcell, Patrick B. "Bart" Purcell, John J. "Jack" Purcell, David M. Purcell, Edward F. Purcell and two sisters, Nora F. Purcell and Mary A. Carbone, all predeceased him. He was born and raised in Worcester, son of the late Patrick J. and Mary J. (O'Connor) Purcell, and was a Navy Veteran of World War II.

Tom was a Lieutenant with the Worcester Police Department where he worked for 32 years until his retirement. He was a former member of Our Lady of the Angels Church, the Knights of Columbus Alhambra Council #88, and Past President of the Worcester Police Patrolmen's Union. He was known for his home improvement skills and his love of the Boston Red Sox, especially Ted Williams. He also enjoyed playing golf.

A MEMORIAL MASS will be held at 11 a.m. on FRIDAY, JUNE 27, in OUR LADY OF THE ANGELS CHURCH, 1222 Main St. The family suggests that donations in memory of Tom be made to San Pedro Catholic Church, Attention: Respite Care, 14380 Tamiami Trail, North Port FL 34287. Kelly Funeral Home, 154 Lincoln St., is assisting the family with arrangements. Messages of condolence may also be sent to the family on-line at

www.kellyfuneralhome.com