Margaret E. Purce

Margaret Elaine Purce, lovingly known as "Emma" by family and friends, was born December 20, 1932 to the late Willie A. and Etta H. Smith.

She was called home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, October 15, 2013 at the Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center, Woodbridge, Virginia.

Margaret received her education in the public school system of Westmoreland County, Virginia.

Realizing her need of a Savior, at an early age she professed her faith in and accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Lord and Savior and was baptized under the pastorate of the Late Rev. Dr. Lloyd Banks. She united with the Little Zion Baptist Church, remaining faithful and obedient in her support of the Ministry in fellowship, works and financially, until her demise. She was a diligent and committed servant, having served faithfully in ministry as a member of the former Gospel Chorus, Senior Choir, Pastoral Aide, Floral Ministry, Secretary of the former Willing Workers Club, Past President of the Missionary Ministry and also as Secretary of the Missionary Ministry, under pastorates of the Late Rev. Dr. Winston S. DeVaughan and the Late Rev. William B. Scott.

On September, 1952 she was united in holy matrimony to Marrill William Purce. To this union one son and four daughters were born. This Union was later dissolved by divorce.

Margaret was employed at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division as a Librarian Technician, having retired on September 2, 1994, after more than 25 years of service. She enjoyed her work and ensured that whatever she did was done to the best of her ability. She was a faithful, dedicated and committed employee, having received many awards, certificates and letters of appreciation.

She was a devoted and loving mother, grandmother and great -grandmother. She loved being surrounded by her family. She wasn't a woman of many words but when she did speak she spoke with words of wisdom; and, her smile could light up a room.

She leaves to cherish precious memories five children: Evelyn Wise (Thomas) of Montross, Virginia, Vernessa Carey (Carl) of Ft. Washington, Maryland, Marrill Purce, Jr. (Brenda) of Colonial Beach, Virginia, Allison Scott (Stephen) of Providence Forge, Virginia, Patrice Hernandez (Isaac) of Springfield, Virginia; one granddaughter Nadia Hernandez; two grandsons DeRon Purce and Terren Wise; one great-grandson Daveon Purce; two sisters, Blanche Johnson, Maud Smith (John); two sisters-in-law, Barbara Smith and Helen Smith as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and acquaintances far too numerous to name.