Lawrence E. Purcell, 56, of New Bedford died May 29, 2002 at home after a long illness.

He was the husband of Anne M. (Cifizzari) Purcell, and son of the late John F. and Muriel H. (King) Purcell.

Mr. Purcell was born in New Bedford and had lived in New Bedford for all of his life. He was a member of the Christian Life Fellowship in Rehoboth.

He was formerly employed at Raytheon Corporation for many years until his illness.

Mr. Purcell was a member of the New Bedford Jaycees from 1971-1981, serving as President from 1979-1980; Internal Vice-President 1978-1979; and on the Board of Directors from 1972-1973 and 1977-1978. He was voted Outstanding Vice-President of Massachusetts Jaycees for 1978-1979.

Mr. Purcell was an amateur Ham Radio Operator using call letters "N1AS", and held an F.C.C. First Class Radiotelephone license with radar endorsement and F.C.C. Extra Class Amateur Radio license. He taught amateur radio and electronics at Apponequet Regional High School and at local amateur radio clubs.

He was the former local Director of Emergency Communications for the American Red Cross, and was involved in several local radio and coins clubs.

Survivors include his wife; a son, Scott Lapan of Milford, MA; 2 daughters, Janine Steinbrecher and Patricia Lapan, both of Milford, NH; 10 grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Funeral Service in the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford, Saturday, June 1st at 9 AM.

Visiting hours Friday, May 31st from 5-8 PM.

Interment Acushnet Cemetery.