Mary Bradford Purnell

Mary Bradford Purnell was born to Arthur and Mazie Bradford on August 19, 1952 in Georgia. After settling in TN, she met Joel Purnell. They moved to Portland, TN, where they joined New Hope Baptist Church under the pastoral leadership of Dennis Page, Pastor. They were married on February 6, 2002 and were together until her last day.

Mary was a faithful member of New Hope Baptist Church. Until she was unable, she helped with the baptisms of new members, assisting with the process and making sure they had new bibles at the service. She also sent letters to any first visitors who attended. In 2006 she was awarded Woman of the Year at New Hope Baptist Church. 

Mary is survived by her husband, Joel G Purnell; her sons, Robert (Lisa) Willis, William “Bill” (Kristen) Smith, Andrew (Katie) Smith, Joel “Jr” (Jessica) Purnell, and David (Carmen) Smith; a faithful son-in-law, Steve Housman; her grandchildren, Haley Smith, Sarah Willis, Kate Willis, Carter Smith, Victoria Purnell, Jeremiah Purnell, Jaye Smith, Titus Smith, and Eve Smith; and a sister, Beverly Bradford Covington. 

She was preceded in death by her parents and her daughter, Betty Housman. Mary was dearly loved and will be greatly missed as she now rests in the hands of our loving Father.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, May 17, 2025 at New Hope Baptist Church, located at 225 Scattersville Road, Portland TN 37148.