Barbara "Peachie" Jean Purcell

On Tuesday, January 24, 2023, Barbara Jean Purcell, 74, of Coatesville, PA was called home by her Lord and Savior, while surrounded by family at the Chester County Hospital.

Born in Coatesville, PA, Barbara was the daughter of Laura W. Folks and the late Harvey Travis Folks. She was affectionately known as “Peachie” by her family and friends.

She received her early education from the Coatesville area public schools. While living in Coatesville, she played on an adult softball team where she served as a first baseman.

She was the widow of the late Minister Ronald Purcell with whom she shared a special love for forty years.

Barbara worked as one of the first black female crane operators at Lukens Steel for many years. She relocated to Monroe, NC before settling in Emporia, VA where she worked within the healthcare industry. While in Emporia also loved singing in her church choir. Upon retiring, she returned home to Pennsylvania, where she enjoyed caring for her grandchildren, spending time with family, watching sports and shopping. 

Peachie was a devoted and loving mother and grandmother. She loved the Lord and attending church service. She was also known to cut a rug and was a joy to be around. 

She was preceded in death by her brother, Vernon Lee Folks and a best friend, Safronia Vinson.

She is survived by her daughters, Laurie L. Folks (Ricky) of Coatesville, PA, Tonya L. Smith and Tamia L. Jackson (Timothy) both of Charlotte, NC; sons, Kenneth L. Smith (Johnnay) of Downingtown, PA , Keith L. Smith (Julia) of Charlotte, NC; mother, Laura W. Folks of Coatesville; 16 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren; best friend like a sister, Renee Peoples and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

Homegoing services will be held at 11:00 AM, Monday, January 30, 2023, at New Generation Outreach Fellowship Ministries, 101 North Fifth Avenue, Coatesville, PA. A viewing will be held from 9:00 AM until the time of service.

Interment will be held in Zion Hill Cemetery, in Atglen, PA.

Family and friends may share condolences at the guestbook link on this memorial page.  Photos may be shared on the tribute book by clicking on 'add a memory'.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Barbara "Peachie" Jean Purcell, please visit our floral store.