Shirley J. Purdy

Shirley J. Purdy, age 89, of Hollansburg, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 25, 2025, at the Brethren Retirement Community in Greenville.

She was born on January 2, 1936, in Greenville, Ohio, to the late Allen and Doris (Caskey) Thompson.

In addition to her parents, Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, Robert D. Purdy in 2003; her sons, Bruce Purdy and John Purdy; her brother, Michael Thompson; and her brother-in-law, Marvin Bevins.

Shirley is survived by her children and their spouses, Tom and Cheryl Purdy of Palestine and Cindy and Phil Fiste of Greenville; her grandchildren and their spouses, Mindi and Josh Ashworth of Clayton, Ohio, Michelle and Amy Waters of Troy, Ohio, and Casey and Benjamin Rife of Delphos, Ohio; her great grandchildren, Jackson, Ashton, and Hudson, Zev and Bennett, London, and Phoebe; her sister, Beverly Bevins of Greenville; and her sister-in-law, Barbara Thompson of Springfield, Ohio.

A graduate of Westmont High School in Hollansburg, class of 1952, Shirley dedicated her life to serving others. She earned her American Sign Language-English interpreters’ certification, a testament to her passion for helping others. For over two decades, Shirley worked as a deaf interpreter for Richmond Community Schools, where her commitment to her students made a lasting impact. In addition, she worked at KMART and served as a cook for Liberty Local School, always with a warm smile and a caring heart. 

Shirley was a faithful follower of Christ and a cherished member of Northside Church of Christ in Richmond, where she shared her talent as an interpreter for many years, and volunteered countless hours over 15 years to the church’s clothing pantry. Her faith was a guiding light in her life and served as an inspiration to everyone who knew her. Shirley found joy in the simple pleasures of life, including reading, playing card games on her computer, eating out, and watching her favorite game shows. 

Above all, family was the cornerstone of Shirley’s happiness. She treasured every moment spent with her loved ones, and her spirit will live on in their hearts.

A celebration of Shirley’s life will be held at 10:00 AM, Saturday, August 30, 2025, at Northside Church of Christ, Richmond, with Pastor Christian Penrod officiating. Burial will follow in Hollansburg Cemetery.

Guests may visit with Shirley’s family on Friday, August 29, 2025, from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Tribute Funeral Homes, Greenville Campus and again on Saturday from 9:00 AM until 10:00 AM at the church in Richmond.

Memorial contributions may be given to Northside Church of Christ, 1962 Chester Blvd., Richmond, Indiana, 47374.

Online condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.tributefuneralhomes.com.