Ellen C. (Purcell) Brier, 74, of Hershey, passed away Friday, Nov. 26, at UPMC Harrisburg.
Born May 27, 1947, in Pottsville, she was a daughter of the late Joseph and Catherine (Koury) Purcell.
Ellen was a dedicated RN for Hershey Medical Center and a member of American Nurses Association.
Ellen was a member of St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, Hershey.
She was an avid Penn State football fan, and part of the Nittany Lion Club. Ellen enjoyed going to the game and tailgating with friends. She also loved animals, learning about history, especially the Civil War, and enjoyed going to the theater.
Left to cherish Ellen's memory is her husband, Dr. Peter Brier; son, Joseph P. Brier and wife, Katye; grandchildren, Tate and Charles Brier; brother, Joseph Michael Purcell Jr. and wife, Pamela; niece, Katie; nephew, Sean.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, at St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church, 319 Mahantongo St., Pottsville, with Father Phillip F. Rodgers officiating. Entombment will follow in Our Lady of Cavalry Mausoleum, Hillside, Pottsville. Friends may call from 10 a.m. until the time of the Mass at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the ASPCA, ASPCA.org. Arrangements have been entrusted to Schlitzer Allen Pugh Funeral Home, 515 W. Market St., Pottsville. Online condolences at SchlitzerAllenPugh.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Schlitzer Allen Pugh Funeral Home.
4 Entries
Peg Purcell Sherwood
November 23, 2025
It's hard to believe there are only two first cousins still alive. You had such energy and always a smile on your face. I think of you and Joe so ofter. We were so close in high school. Love your cousin , Peg
Margaret Mary Shewood
November 23, 2024
To my dear cousin. I think of you often, it's hard to believe you and Joey are no longer here. I will be planting a tree through Arbor Care in your memory. Rest in Peace. Your cousin Margaret Purcell Sherwood
Margaret Purcell Sherwood
December 14, 2021
I just was made aware of my 1st cousin's death. Ellen and I grew up together, attended Nativity and nursing school. We lost touch other than Xmas cards. Please extend sympathy to her beloved son Dan and the family.
Thom Kupchinsky
November 30, 2021
Brier family, I am sorry for your loss. Ellen was a classmate at NBVM and PSU also a dear friend. I will pray for the happy repose for Ellen and pray that our Lord provides his comfort to all during your time of morning.
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Schlitzer Allen Pugh Funeral Home515 West Market St., Pottsville, PA 17901

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