Loretta Florence Purdy

Loretta Florence Purdy, age 91, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2025 in Anderson, Indiana surrounded by the love of her family. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Loretta was known for her "big heart," her unwavering faith, and her dedication to serving others. Born Loretta Lupardus on Christmas Eve, 1934 in Granite City, Illinois, she was one of 10 children born to Homer and Nellie Luparadus. Loretta was the last surviving of her 10 siblings, marking the end of a cherished generation for the Lupardus family. After graduating from Granite City High School, she continued her education at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. It was there that she earned a Bachelor of Science and met the love of her life, Paul Lloyd Purdy. Loretta and Paul married in 1957 and moved to Chicago. While Paul attended medical school, Loretta shared her passion for science as a biology teacher at the prestigious Von Steuben High School in Chicago. Following Paul’s medical school graduation and a one-year internship at Barnes Hospital in St. Louis, the couple made a move that would shape the rest of their lives. In 1962, they settled in Petersburg, Illinois, the community Loretta would call home for the next 63 years. It was here that she found her purpose and joy as a full-time mother and homemaker. Together, she and Paul built a life centered on faith and family, raising six children in a home filled with warmth, love, and purpose. A cornerstone of the Petersburg community, Loretta was a passionate and deeply active member of the First Baptist Church. Her kindness and generosity were felt by all who knew her, and her life served as a testament to her deep spiritual convictions. In March of 2025, she moved to Anderson, Indiana, where she spent her final months enjoying the frequent company of her growing family. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Paul L. Purdy, M.D., and her dear son, Bradley A.Purdy. Her legacy of love lives on through her surviving children: Eric Purdy (Paula), Charles Purdy (Carol), Doug Purdy (Joy), Alison Pretti, Rachel Foster (Connor), and foster daughters Susie VanNattan (Jeff) and Betty Keil (Bob). She is also survived by 21 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren who will forever cherish their beloved Nana’s generous spirit and the "Christmas Eve baby" who enriched the lives of so many. A memorial service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on April 11, 2026, followed by a celebration of life at the First Baptist Church of Petersburg, 103 W. Sangamon Ave, Petersburg, IL 62675. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Loretta’s honor to the First Baptist Church of Petersburg or to a charity of your choice.

Loretta Florence Purdy

December 24, 1934 - December 29, 2025