Richard Purcell

Richard “Richie” Donald Purcell, 82, formerly of Jersey City and a resident of the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home in recent years, passed away peacefully on November 25, 2025. Richie was known for his quiet uncomplaining nature and he will be lovingly remembered as an easygoing, calm and thoughtful son, brother, uncle and friend.

Richie was born in Bronx, New York on July 21, 1943 to Mary (Johnson) Purcell and Alfred Purcell. He attended Taft High School and then ventured to Minnesota State University Moorhead for college. During the Vietnam era, he served his country in the United States Army and was stationed in Panama. After his military service, Richie embarked upon a career in social work, where he served as a youth counselor for troubled boys with the New Jersey Division of Youth & Family Services. He later began a second career working as a claims adjuster, where he remained until his retirement.

Richie loved the beach, especially Fire Island and the Jersey Shore, music, basketball and recalling fond memories of the Bronx. He was preceded in death by his sister Cynthia (Purcell) Selmont and is survived by his sister Frances (Purcell) Lynch and his brother Victor Purcell as well as his many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Richie’s life will be held at the Paramus Veterans Memorial Home on December 30th at 10:30 AM, followed by a Celebration of Life Lunch with his immediate family.