Eric Dean Purcell

Eric "Dean" Purcell, of Belmont, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at home on June 3,

2026, with his loving wife by his side. Born on June 23, 1961, in Concord, North Carolina, Dean

was the son of Arthur "Bud" Purcell and the late Corita Hallman Purcell.

Dean dedicated 20 years of service to Wikoff Color. He enjoyed watching all sports and was an

avid collector of NASCAR memorabilia. Dean especially loved traveling to the mountains and

the beach with his wife, Sylvia, and spending time with their grandchildren.

Dean was preceded in death by his mother Corita Purcell and brother Buddy Purcell.

Dean is survived by his father, Arthur "Bud" Purcell; his wife of 36 years, Sylvia McCombs

Purcell; his stepson, Jeremy Wilcox and wife, Kerianne; his beloved grandchildren, Tucker and

Lillie Wilcox; his sister, Caroline Purcell; his brother, Charlie Purcell; his sisters-in-law, Rita

Grim and Beverly "Dee Dee" McCombs; as well as several nieces and great-nieces.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff of Senior TLC's Gastonia

Branch for their compassion, care, and ongoing support throughout the past year.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, June 6, 2026 from 11:00 AM to Noon at Benson Funeral & Cremation Service, Mt. Holly. 

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Noon in the Chapel of Benson Funeral & Cremation Service. 

Benson Funeral & Cremation Service of Mt. Holly is serving the family of Mr. Purcell.