Richard Michael Purcell passed away on May 29, 2026 at home. Born on September 13, 1954 in Chattanooga, TN, he was the son of James Edward Purcell and Mary Margaret Snow Purcell. He was the husband of Cynthia Foust Purcell. They shared 34 years of beautiful marriage together.
Born in Chattanooga, TN, he was the son of James Edward Purcell and Mary Margaret Snow Purcell. He graduated Oak Ridge High School as part of the 1972 class. He attended the University of Tennessee. He was an employee before becoming the owner of a vending company.
He valued spending quality time with his family. He enjoyed being outdoors and the community of Oak Ridge. He was an avid sports fan, supporting the Tennessee Volunteers, Atlanta Braves and the Dallas Cowboys. He will be remembered for his kindness, warm soul, and being an outstanding example of a husband, father, brother and man.
He is survived by Cynthia Foust Purcell (wife), James Michael and McKenzie Tyler Purcell (son and daughter in law), and Claude Joe Stratton (son). He was predeceased by his grandparents, parents and other extended family.
There will be a celebration of life at a future date for close friends and family.
