Ronald Harrison Pursell, 84, of Litchfield, died on Monday, Nov. 30, 2020, at 11:16 a.m. at Heritage Health: Therapy and Senior Care in Litchfield.
No visitation will be held. Private family funeral services will be conducted Saturday, Dec. 5, with the Rev. Mike Rogers of Litchfield Southern Baptist Church officiating. Burial will follow at Cedar Ridge Cemetery in Honey Bend. Plummer Funeral Home in Litchfield is assisting the family.
Mr. Pursell was born Aug. 3, 1936, in DuQuoin, to Harrison “Tub” and Dorothy (McLean) Pursell. He married Marie Louise Albrecht on June 26, 1965, at St. Timothy United Methodist Church in Litchfield, and she survives.
He graduated from Litchfield High School with the class of 1954, and went on to serve in the Illinois National Guard during Peacetime.
In his earlier years, Mr. Pursell worked at Wepco Manufacturing in Litchfield, Weaver Manufacturing in Springfield and Roller Derby Skate Corp in Litchfield for several years. He recently worked as a laborer with the city of Litchfield Street Department until his retirement.
He coached youth basketball in Litchfield for several years and was inducted into the Illinois Coaches Hall of Fame. He enjoyed all sports and was an avid Cardinal’s fan. He especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Pursell is survived by his two daughters, Connie (Brad) Frerichs and Tina (Winston) Grabner, both of Litchfield; two sisters, Donna (Paul) Frerichs of Litchfield and Linda Skinner of Carlinville; three grandchildren, Courtney (Nick) Wood, Casey Frerichs and Tayler (Zach) Shelton; five great-grandchildren, Heaven, Jayde, Serenity, Tori and Colin; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Memorials may be directed to the Litchfield High School Athletic Program with checks payable to Litchfield High School.
To light a candle or sign the online guestbook, visit www.plummerfuneralservices.com.
