Deborah "Debbie" Gross Purcell, age 68, passed away on Sunday, June 15, 2025 under the compassionate care of Hospice of South Georgia, surrounded by her loving family. Debbie was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend to many.

On June 26, 1976, Debbie married the love of her life, Ricky Purcell. Together, they built a beautiful life and were blessed with two daughters, April and Jennifer. A dedicated and selfless wife and mother, Debbie always prioritized the needs of her family above her own. In addition to her role at home, she was co-owner of Purcell's Service Center and Towing  for over forty years, working alongside Ricky. While he managed the mechanical side of the business, Debbie ran the office with care and efficiency. For her, it was more than a job—it was an opportunity to turn customers into friends and friends into family. She never met a stranger, and her greatest joy came from serving and uplifting others.

Debbie found her deepest happiness in her role as "Nana." She cherished her six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, and as soon as they were old enough, she began a cherished tradition of taking them camping in the mountains every summer. Always ready for an adventure, Debbie found joy in every trip, especially if it involved shopping and treating her loved ones. She had a particular fondness for discovering new Vera Bradley patterns, with coffee in hand, and made every outing an occasion to remember.

A devoted supporter of her husband, Debbie could often be found at the racetrack, cheering Ricky on from the stands. Though she was known to offer a few firm words over the years, she remained his most loyal and enthusiastic fan.

In her quiet moments, Debbie enjoyed crocheting, cross-stitching, reading, and spending time in prayer. Her life was marked by unwavering faith, quiet strength, and a deep love for those around her. She lived with grace, humility, and compassion, and her presence was a blessing to all who knew her. Debbie's legacy is one of love, faith, and selfless devotion—a life well-lived and dearly missed.

Debbie was a member of Altamaha Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her father, Bobby Gross; biological mother, Joann Millien; grandson, Brennan Clark; sister, Tracy Gross Efre: brother, Jerry Steele; father-in-law, Gene Purcell

Survivors include her husband of 49 years, Ricky Purcell; Mother, Joyce Gross; Mother-in-law, Kathleen Purcell; her two daughters, April Purcell, Jennifer(Brent) Clark; granddaughters, Katlyn (Codi) Johnson, Logan(Nathan) Clark, Kyleigh Purcell; grandsons, Caleb (Golianna) Watson and Braiden Clark; great-grandchildren, Blakley Johnson, Jameson Johnson and Rowan Johnson; one great-grandson on the way, Sebastian Lemmen; brother, Brian(Erin)Gross; brother-in-law, Ronnie Purcell; beloved fur baby, Chase; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, June 17, 2025 from Altamaha Baptist Church with Rev. Devin Mixon and Chaplain Tom Ratliff officiating. Interment will follow in the Altamaha Baptist Church Cemetery. Active pallbearers will be Caleb Watson, Braiden Clark, Codi Johnson, Nathan Lemmen, Patrick Gross, and Ridge Purcell. Honorary pallbearers will be the staff of Hospice of South Georgia and loving caregiver, Donna Pye, who provided many hours of compassionate love and care.

Family will receive friends from 9:30- 11:00 a.m. at the church.

Rinehart and Sons Funeral Home of Jesup is in charge of arrangements.