Willie M. Puryear's Obituary
Mr. Willie M. Puryear of Bridgeville, DE passed away on Wednesday, February 17, 2021 at Bayhealth Hospital Sussex in Milford, DE. He was 83 years old.
Willie was born in Skipwith, VA to the late Willie and Matilda Pulliam Puryear. In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by a daughter Juanita as well as 8 siblings, Louise, Albert, Herman, Geraldine, Raymond, Otis, Marshall and Pearl.
He enlisted in the US Air Force in 1957, and served until 1987 in an honorable and distinguished career, and was a veteran of Viet Nam. He retired at the rank of Technical Sgt. He also was a 32nd degree Mason, member of Prince Hall, served as Past Master, and also was part of the Military Lodge 28, in Dover. He was a member of the American Legion, and VFW Post 10157 in Salisbury, MD. He loved Westerns, CSNBC, and had a great interest in politics. He was a loving father, loving husband and a very hard worker. He also served as a mentor in the Knights of Pythagoras.
Willie is survived by his devoted wife of 36 years, Helena Puryear of Bridgeville, DE and five children, Willie M. Puryear, Jr.; Robert Puryear; and Theresa Puryear Armstrong and her husband Kennard all of Atlanta, GA, Robert Lee Jones and Terry L. Jones and his wife Sandra all of Seaford, DE. He leaves to cherish his memory 10 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren as well as a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
A funeral will be held at 10:00 AM on Thursday, February 25, 2021 at the Watson Funeral Home, 211 S. Washington St., Millsboro, DE 19966, where friends may call from 9:30 AM - 10:00 AM for viewing and visitation. A chapel service with military honors will follow at 11:00 AM at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 26669 Patriots Way, Millsboro, DE 19966. In accordance with the Covid 19 Pandemic restrictions masks, social distancing and limited seating will be available.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to Home of the Brave Foundation, 6632 Sharps Rd, Milford, DE 19963.
Electronic condolences via watsonfh.com
What’s your fondest memory of Willie?
What’s a lesson you learned from Willie?
Share a story where Willie's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Willie you’ll never forget.
How did Willie make you smile?