Wanda Gertrude Whitaker Purvis

Wanda Gertrude Whitaker Purvis, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at the age of 91. She was born on November 15, 1934, in Hope, Kentucky, to the late Delmas and Aldean Gibb Whitaker and spent her life exemplifying faith, love, and resilience.

Wanda 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. Wanda 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. Wanda began her professional journey at Southern Bell Telephone Company, a position she cherished, and 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.

Wanda's 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, Wanda 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, Wanda was an ardent fan of both UK basketball and football, celebrating every moment of the game with enthusiasm.

Wanda's 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.

Wanda is survived by 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 late parents, she is preceded in death by her beloved husband Ken Purvis; her infant children, Michael D. Purvis and Sheila Purvis.

Funeral services will be held at Hope First Church of God on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at 9:30AM, with a visitation preceding the service at Hope First Church of God on Friday, January 2, 2026 from 5:00PM to 7:00PM. Burial will follow the funeral at Machpelah Cemetery. Rev. Tom Stacey will be officiating.

Pallbearers: Paul Purvis, Jerry Purvis, Maxx Purvis, Zachary Purvis, Chris Purvis, and Michael Purvis

Honorary Pallbearers: Earl Whitaker, Steve Whitaker, and Greg Whitaker

In lieu of flowers the family request donations in Wanda's memory to Bluegrass Care Navigators, 1733 Harrodsburg Road, Lexington, Kentucky 40504.

As we honor the remarkable life of Wanda Gertrude Purvis, 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.