Ernest M. Purcell

Ernest M. Purcell, age 83, of Brookhaven passed away on December 3, 2020.

He is survived by his loving wife Anna (nee Buonsante) of 53 years, daughter Lisa Purcell, stepsons William Van Ess and Robert Van Ess, 5 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Ernie is also survived by his sister Martha Lawler and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother John Purcell and stepson Richard Van Ess.

He was a veteran of the Air Force Reserve, A/3C. A proud graduate of Widener University, he earned a Masters Degree in Engineering. A 38 year employee of ESCO, he developed arresting gear for military aircraft and received a patent in 1972 for an Airport Lighting Monitoring System. He was a model train enthusiast and attended many of the York Train Shows.

Those wishing to attend the graveside service and burial on Tuesday, December 8, please gather at Bateman Allen Funeral Home’s parking lot by 10:15am to follow the procession to SS Peter and Paul Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN, 38105 or by visiting https://www.stjude.org/donate