Martin J. Purcell, III, 62, of Swansea, passed away at home unexpectedly on Sunday, February 14, 2021 after an illness. He was the dearest friend and companion of Michelle Simcock of Somerset. Born in Fall River, a son of the late Michael T. Purcell and the late Ann (Crowley) Purcell, he resided in Swansea most of his life.

He was employed as head of security for the Tillotson Complex (Tillotson Rubber and Borden & Remington Chemical) on Ferry Street in Fall River for many years. A music lover and true aficionado of all the legendary rock bands, Martin was the administrator of the Thin Lizzy Fan Club. With his unique and talented writing ability he was able to strike up and maintain longstanding friendships with many famous band members. Enjoying a vast collection of compact discs and band memorabilia, he had such an extensive knowledge of rock bands that even the most obscure trivia questions on topic would not stump him. Martin also loved animals.

Besides Michelle, he is survived by: five children, Martin J. Purcell of Somerset, Tara Marie Duclos of Acushnet, Craig S. Purcell (wife Ashlee) of Swansea, Amy L. Purcell of Fall River, and Mickey Purcell of Westport; five siblings, Guy M. Purcell of Dighton, Shelly Robbins of Fall River, Lori Pacheco of Westport, Cindy Smeaton of Westport, and Miki Purcell of W. Warwick, RI; five grandchildren, Caleb, Tessa, Chase, Jordan, and Aliviah; several aunts and uncles; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by two siblings, Jody & Mark Swist.

His Funeral Mass was celebrated on Friday, February 19th, in St. Anthony of Padua Church followed by his private committal at St. Patrick Cemetery both in Fall River. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Martin's memory to Faxon Animal Rescue League of Greater Fall River, 474 Durfee St, Fall River, MA 02720.

Family members are always grateful for relatives and friends wishing to make in-person expressions of kindness and support. If you were unable to do so, because of this pandemic or any other reason, all are urged to express their sympathy online or by mail. To ensure that said condolences and/or sympathy cards reach the family, please always make sure that submissions online are made directly through the funeral home's website ( www.silvafaria.com ) and not through a third party. Thank you!