Wanda Gertrude Whitaker Purvis, 91, passed away peacefully, Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025.
Born Nov. 15, 1934, in Hope, she was the daughter of the late Delmas and Aldean Gibb Whitaker. She spent her life exemplifying faith, love and resilience. She was married to her husband, Kenneth Purvis for 67 wonderful years, during which they embraced faith as the cornerstone of their family life. Together, they moved 22 times, supporting each other’s dreams, faith and aspirations in pursuit of a better life for their family. She was not only a strong and nurturing mother to her children, but she also devoted herself to the Lord, being an extraordinary grandmother and great-grandmother, pouring love into them. Her early academic achievements included graduating salutatorian from Camargo High School in 1952. She began her professional journey at Southern Bell Telephone Company, a position she cherished. She later dedicated many years to the Mt. Sterling Water Company as a consumer services representative, and to whatever Ken or family needed, demonstrating her commitment to serving others. Her love for her family extended beyond her work. She was a talented homemaker, known for her delicious baking and meals, and an exceptional seamstress, dress maker, pianist and organ player. Her hands created moments of warmth and joy for those she loved. An avid reader, she could often be found engrossed in a book, sometimes finishing one a day. She was a knowledgeable scholar of the Bible, walking her faith daily and sharing her wisdom with everyone around her. A long-time member of Hope First Church of God, she found solace and community there, considering it her home church. Her passion for travel took her to European cities rich in biblical history, where she found inspiration and joy. A true sports enthusiast, she was an ardent fan of both UK basketball and football, celebrating every moment of the game with enthusiasm. Her vibrant personality was marked by her generosity and thoughtfulness. She touched countless lives with her kindness and keen insights, often leaving others with something to ponder.
Survivors include her children, Paul Purvis (Joyce), Sherri Elledge (Jay) and Jerry Purvis (Marybeth); grandchildren, Chris Purvis (Linda), Lisa Purvis Ogg (Colin), Maxx Purvis (Caitlin) and Zachary Purvis (Kaitlyn Bowman); great-grandchildren, Kaylee Purvis, Michael Purvis, Bella Ogg, Samuel Ogg and Bowen Ogg; brother, Earl Whitaker (Caroline); numerous Purvis family members and special friends.
In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ken Purvis; and infant children, Michael D. Purvis and Sheila Purvis.
Service will be conducted at 9:30 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 3, at Hope First Church of God with Rev. Tom Stacey officiating. Visitation will be 5-7 p.m., Friday, at the church. Burial will be in Machpelah Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Paul Purvis, Jerry Purvis, Maxx Purvis, Zachary Purvis, Chris Purvis and Michael Purvis
Honorary pallbearers will be Earl Whitaker, Steve Whitaker and Greg Whitaker
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations in Wanda’s memory to Bluegrass Care Navigators, 1733 Harrodsburg Rd., Lexington, Ky., 40504.
As we honor her remarkable life, we celebrate her unwavering faith, her immense love for family, and her lasting impact on all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered.
Guestbook available at www.coffmanfuneral.com.
Arrangements under the direct care of Coffman Funeral Home and Crematory.
