Harry E. Pursley

Harry Edgar Pursley, 77, of Abbeville, beloved husband of Alice Burriss Pursley, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at his home. He was born November 19, 1948 in Abbeville to the late James David and Sarah Amy Hedden Pursley, Harry dedicated much of his life to family, community, and his profession.

A 1967 graduate of Abbeville High School and a 1969 graduate of Piedmont Technical College, Harry was a lifelong member of Warrenton Presbyterian Church and an active participant in the Sherry Wilson Sunday School Class at Abbeville First Baptist Church. He served his country honorably with three years in the United States Army, including deployments to Vietnam and Korea.

Following his military service, Harry enjoyed a rewarding 34-year career as an engineer with CSX Railroad. He had a passion for classic cars, particularly 1967 Chevrolet Chevelles, and found great satisfaction in restoring and rebuilding them. He was an engaged member of the Abbeville Wheels of Time Car Club and frequently attended car shows and cruise-ins. In addition to his automotive interests, Harry taught himself woodworking, crafting many beautiful pieces of furniture and other wooden items.

Harry also enjoyed traveling across the United States and Canada, appreciating the diverse and scenic sights. Above all, he treasured time spent with his family and friends, especially his grandchildren. His family cherishes his enduring legacy of dedication, skill, and community spirit.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Sarah Hedden Pursley; his sister, Frances Pursley Hall Lewis; and brothers, JohnnyR. Pursley and Franklin E. Pursley.

He is survived by his wife, Alice of 53 years of the home; two sons,Edward Pursley (Kacey) and David Pursley (Anna), both of Abbeville; his twin brother, Larry “Nip” Pursley (Donna) of Moonville, SC; a sister-in-law, Ann Leslie Pursley of Abbeville; and seven grandchildren: Haven Vines, Abbye Smith (Carson), Langley Light, Dawson, Allyson, Evan, and Georgia Grace Pursley; and many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 5:00PM to 7:00PM on Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at Harris Funeral Home. Funeral Services will be 1:00PM on Thursday, May 28, 2026 in the Abbeville First Baptist Church Christian Life Center with Rev. Chris Sullivan and Rev. Tripp Speer officiating. A private family burial with military honors will be held in Forest Lawn Memory Gardens.

The family is at the home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Mr. Pursley, may be made to Warrenton Presbyterian Church, 191 Watts Road, Abbeville, SC 29620, Abbeville First Baptist Church, PO Box 825, Abbeville, SC 29620, Hospice & Palliative Care of the Piedmont, 408 W. Alexander Ave. Greenwood, SC 29646 and UCMAC Food Pantry, PO Box 502, Abbeville, SC 29620.

A message of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting www.harrisfuneral.com

Harris Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Abbeville is assisting the Pursley family.