Norma Jean Purcell

Norma was born in Fort Knox, Kentucky to Teresa (Langdon) and Edward J Mruk. Her parents and oldest sister Susan Marie (Doug) Sanders predeceased her.

She was raised in White Plains, MD and graduated from Henry E. Lackey in Indian Head, MD and earned her Bachelors degree in Business Administration from Strayer University.

Norma’s entire career was spent working for the government as both an employee (HQ Army, Classifications and Standards, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), Defense Sciences Office) and as a contractor (SKW and SRS Technologies) supporting DARPA.

Norma began supporting US Central Command (CENTCOM) with the DoD Counter Narcoterrorism Technology Program Office in Dahlgren, VA. She and husband Craig moved to Tampa where she worked for BRTRC, Booz Allen Hamilton and finally CACI Technologies, Inc. Thanks to CENTCOM for bringing Don the wonder dog into Norm’s life. his presence was ever combing during this difficult time in her life. He is a major asset to all employees at the Command no matter their station in life.

Norma’s legacy endures in the memories of all who knew her through her kindness, guidance, dedication and quiet strength. She will best be remembered as sweet as her legendary carrot cake, fabulous cupcakes, cookies and amazing banana pudding. A self-taught baker, Norm didn’t need a certificate, she learned by doing, burning a few pans, and perfecting her craft out of pure love for her family and friends. If you knew her, you probably had a treat sitting on your doorstep (or office gathering) at some point. She just made life sweeter.

Norma is survived by her husband Craig Purcell, daughter Jessica Diehl (Nick, Alex and Livvy), son, Sean DeAtley (Peyton and Landon), stepchildren Robert (Cindy) Purcell, Annette Purcell, sisters Betty Mruk Paoletti (Chuck, d.) and Debbie Andreasen (Gerry, d.) and brother Eddie (Jane) Mruk.

Many thanks to Dr. Thomas Rutherford and staff at the TGH Cancer Center (especially Jaisa) and the great care she received at Tampa General Hospital.

A Celebration of Life will be held 5 p.m. Friday, February 20, 2026 at Stowers Funeral Home, 401 West Brandon Boulevard, Brandon, Florida. The family will receive friends one hour before the service at the funeral home

In lieu of flowers, please think about making a donation to the American Cancer Society.