Alva Bernice (Purcell) Sexton

Alva Bernice Purcell Sexton, 80, of Canton, NC, passed away on Thursday, February 20, 2025 at her home.

Born January 17, 1945 in Greene County, AR, she was a daughter of the late Shelby and Lucy Lacewell. She was a graduate of Kearsley High School in Flint, MI, and received her cosmetology diploma from Asheville – Buncombe Technical College. Shortly after earning her cosmetology licenses, she opened her own business, Prime Kuts Hair Design in Biltmore Forest, NC. Originally, she was a member of Asheville Assembly of God which later became Crossroads Church, and also became a member of Tabernacle of Praise in Fletcher, NC. Bernice loved her Lord and read her Bible and would pray for others often.

Surviving are her children, Mark Anthony Purcell Jr. of Wilmington, NC, Alfred Thomas Purcell III and his spouse, Evelyn, of Swannanoa, NC, Shannon Lynn Purcell of Candler, NC; sibling, Quinton Lacewell and Shelby Lacewell and his spouse, Renee, of Flint, MI, and Freda Hayes and her spouse, Larry, of Asheville, NC; 13 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held in the spring and will be announced at a later date.

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