PINE BLUFF — Barbara Jeanette Ware Purnell,
age 93, a lifelong resident of Pine Bluff, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, January 19, 2020. Born January 9, 1927, she was a daughter of the late A.J. and Juanita Rives Ware. She attended St. Joseph Catholic School and graduated from Pine Bluff High School in 1944.
Jeanette was preceded in death on August 1, 2013, by her husband of 69 years, Carl Daniel Purnell. She was also predeceased by her parents; her sisters, Bettie Satterwhite and Pat Payne; and a grandson, Simon Purnell.
Jeanette was a member of First Presbyterian Church. She and her husband Carl worked closely together until their retirement. They built and operated the Pine Bluff Motel and Plantation Embers restaurant until 1969. They owned the Stagecoach Motel in Hot Springs, from 1967 until 2006.
She was a caring and generous person who always put her family first. Jeanette had many talents including being a fabulous cook and an accomplished seamstress. She particularly enjoyed making beautiful clothes for all of her grandchildren.
She and Carl traveled extensively and especially enjoyed the many years they had a condominium in New Orleans.
Survivors include four sons, John Andrew Purnell (Sandy) of Bethesda, Md., Dan Purnell (Margaret) of Jonesboro, Dr. Gary Purnell of Little Rock, and Jeff Purnell (Cynthia) of Hot Springs; and six grandchildren, Eva Purnell, Jessica Purnell, Christopher Purnell, Miles Purnell (Paige), Dr. Chase Purnell and Blake Purnell.
The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Hospice Angels and all of the caregivers for the many years of exceptional care, love and attention provided to our mother.
Visitation will be Friday, January 24, 2020, beginning at 1 p.m. at Fuller Hale-South Funeral Chapel. The funeral service will follow at 2 p.m. Interment will be in Bellwood Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to UAMS Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, 4301 West Markham, mail slot 716, Little Rock, Ark. 72205. For online condolences, please visit FullerFunerals.com.