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Celebrating the life of

Walter Purcell

June 29, 1949 - March 31, 2024

Walter Purcell

Walter Purcell, 74, a native of Savannah, passed away Sunday, March 31, 2024, after a long illness. He was born June 22, 1949, the youngest of five boys to the late Eugene Enoch Purcell and Eva Gaynell Driggers Purcell.

He graduated from Groves high school and served in the Army.  Walter worked in construction and was a skilled carpenter.  He was a natural gardener and took great pride in his yard.  He was also a master craftsman and was very creative, and his talents were widespread to include stained glass, etchings, and a host of other artistic abilities. 

Walter was known for his big smile and genuine nature. Walter's biggest passion was dancing, particularly shagging, and he shared this love with Gloria Moak, his life partner.  He was well loved and respected throughout the south’s various Shag Clubs.

He is survived by his life partner, Gloria Moak, her son Scott (Sarah) Moak, her grandkids Leo and Hayden.  His brothers Larry, Jim and Joe Purcell, sister-in-law Betty Purcell, nephews Forrest and Chad.  He is preceded in death by his parents and brother Chet.

Visitation will be held on April 11th, 2024, from 4-6pm, followed by a celebration of life starting at 6pm. In keeping with Walter’s love of life and the beach, please wear casual attire. There will be an opportunity during the service for friends and family to share stories and memories of Walter.  The services will be conducted at Fox and Weeks on Wilmington Island in Savannah, Georgia.

Walter will be deeply missed by his friends and family, but his memory will live on through the joy he brought to those around him.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that you consider a donation in Walter’s memory to the charity of your choice.

 

 

SHARE YOUR CONDOLENCES

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GUEST BOOK

Gloris and family. So sorry for your loss of your long time partner. Hugs & prayers

- Spear, Savannah, GA

You were a great coworker and a great friend. RIP

- Arthur, Atlanta , Georgia

Uncle Walter will be missed. So sorry to all for his loss to his family- brothers Jim, Larry, and Jackie. Deep loss for his son Robert Christopher Purcell and his love for the last twenty plus years- Glora. Sorry if I missed someone or messed this message up. We will miss you Uncle Walter. Jennifer Jones his niece.

- Jennifer Purcell Jones, Milledgeville , Georgia

So very sorry to hear of Walter’s passing. He was such a nice man. That dry humor and his big smile will always be remembered fondly. My sincere condolences.

- Helen Still-Meyers, Graniteville, SC

The dance floor has lost an extremely valuable advocate in Walter Purcell. More importantly, the area-wide community of Shag has lost a smiling, spirited, and irreplaceable personality, a true student of the dance, a teacher, a friend, known simply as “Walter”. Along with Gloria, Walter commanded the dance floor and was always willing to share his smooth skills with anyone. For many of us, some steps simply became known as “the Walter and Gloria”….always attempted, but never quite as smooth as the “originals”. Thank you for your gift, Walter.

- Barry Cohick and Dina Chester, Hilton Head, SC

Gloria, I'm so very sorry to hear about Walter. He was a very dear friend and wonderful person.He always had a smile on his face and the love of dancing in his heart. Prayers for you and his family.

- Kathy and Bryan Sikes , Savannah, GA

Services under the direction of:

Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200


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