Purnell Whitehead Obituary-Death News; Barber At Parris Island, Purnell Whitehead Passes Away
The community of Beaufort, South Carolina, is mourning the loss of Purnell Whitehead, affectionately known by all as “Mr. Tootie.” A man whose name became synonymous with compassion, dedication, and expertise, Mr. Tootie’s death has left a profound hole in the hearts of those who knew him.
For more than three decades, Purnell Whitehead, known in his professional and personal circles as Mr. Tootie, served the community with unrivaled passion, primarily as the manager of the Receiving Building Barbershop at the prestigious Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) Parris Island.
His death marks not only the passing of a man but the loss of a legacy that spanned generations and touched the lives of countless Marines, recruits, and members of the Beaufort area.
A Legacy of Service Beyond the Barber Chair
For over thirty years, Mr. Tootie was more than just a barber; he was an institution in his own right at Parris Island. As the manager of the barbershop, he did much more than merely cut hair.
To the Marines who passed through Parris Island’s gates, Mr. Tootie represented an enduring symbol of strength and compassion, qualities often required to survive the rigor of basic training.
His steady hands and unflappable demeanor were comforting to nervous recruits, often providing the only consistent source of encouragement during their transition into military life.
