Mary V. “Ginger” Purcell, 83

Mary V. “Ginger” Purcell, age 83, of Swainsboro, passed away Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at Emanuel Medical Center. Funeral services were held Saturday, February 14, at 4:30 p.m. in the chapel of Chapman Funeral Home with Mr. Kevin Chapman officiating assisted by Reverend Brad McKenzie. Family received friends one hour prior to services. Interment followed in Swainsboro City Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Kevin Chapman, Ron Waters, David Way, Carson Purcell, Conner Purcell and Keigan Purcell.

Ginger was born August 17, 1942, in Swainsboro, to the late Bertie James Fields and Ruby Shealy Fields. She was a woman whose life was defined by love, faith, and an unwavering devotion to those around her. Ginger was not simply a grandmother to her family, she was “Grandma” to everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her heart was vast, her kindness endless, and her love knew no boundaries. She found joy in the simple, meaningful moments of life. Baking and cooking were never just tasks to her but acts of love. Every meal, every sweet treat, every recipe carried a piece of her heart. The kitchen was one of the many places where her warmth, laughter, and nurturing spirit shined brightest. Above all else, Ginger’s life was anchored in her faith. Her soul was deeply dedicated to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. God was the center of her world, and her relationship with Him guided the way she lived, loved, and cared for others. Whether attending church in person or faithfully joining online when she could not physically be there, her devotion never wavered. She was a woman of steadfast belief, always reminding those she loved to “give it to the Lord.”

Ginger possessed a rare and genuine spirit. She was the most sincere, loving and giving person. Ginger was someone whose happiness came from seeing others happy. She celebrated the joys of her family and friends as if they were her own, always proud, always supportive, always encouraging. Ginger was everyone’s biggest cheerleader, showing up whenever she could, offering her love, guidance, and unwavering support. Her generosity was unmatched. Ginger gave freely and wholeheartedly, never hesitating to offer everything she had if it meant bringing a smile to someone’s face. She formed special bonds with everyone she met, treating each person with warmth and compassion. To her, no one was a stranger, everyone was family. Ginger cherished every opportunity to spend time with family and friends, appreciating each moment as a precious gift. Her conversations were filled with wisdom, comfort, and love, often sprinkled with the rhymes and sayings passed down from her own mother; small treasures of tradition that reflected her deep appreciation for life’s simple joys.

One of the many ways Ginger expressed her love was through the words she so often shared with those closest to her. She never missed an opportunity to remind others how deeply they were loved, frequently saying, “I love you a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck.” These words, so simple yet so full of warmth, perfectly reflected the depth of her affection and the tenderness of her heart. Ginger took great joy in the lives of those she loved. She always wanted to know the latest updates on every milestone, every story, every tiny detail. No moment was ever too small to share with her. Ginger listened with excitement, genuine interest, and pride, finding happiness simply in being a part of the lives of her family and friends. If there was ever someone you could count on, whether on your best day or your worst, it was Ginger. She was the best friend, the steady presence, the comforting voice. She listened without judgment, loved without condition, and always ended conversations with gentle reminders of faith, hope, and trust in God.

Ginger lived her life with gratitude. She was always thankful, always content, always appreciative of the blessings she had. Her love was constant, her pride in others unwavering, and her presence unforgettable. Ginger will forever be remembered for her genuine heart, her deep faith, her boundless generosity, and the love she so effortlessly gave to everyone around her. Though she is no longer with us, her love, her lessons, and her spirit will continue to live on. For those who knew Ginger, her absence will be deeply felt. Though heaven has gained her, her love continues to surround us every day. Some people leave this world quietly, but the love they gave echoes forever. Mrs. Purcell is preceded in death by her parents; and brother, Jimmie Fields.

Survivors include her sons, Brian Purcell (Christy) of Warner Robins and Todd Purcell (Mandi) of Swainsboro; brother, Pepper Fields (Barbara) of Swainsboro; grandchildren, Carson Purcell, Conner Purcell, Melanie Purcell, Keigan Purcell and Macie Purcell; niece, Christine Waters (Ron); nephews, Robert Fields (Bonnie) and Michael Fields (Debbie); and many friends.

Chapman Funeral Home of Swainsboro was in charge of arrangements.