Dolores Ann Purcell

Dolores “Ann” Purcell, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and teacher, passed in to the loving hands of God on May 21, 2016 at the age of 85. She was known for finding joy in the little things of everyday life and for her love of family and friends. Ann was born June 5, 1930 to Raymond and Sarah Parks at their home in Montezuma, Kansas. She married Francis Michael “Mick” Purcell Jr. in 1951. They had five sons: Craig, Tom, Andy, Matt and Steven.
Ann enjoyed many interests and hobbies and spending time with her children and grandchildren always brought a sparkle to her eyes. She also enjoyed listening to music, reading books, cats, birds, sunflowers and gardening. After retirement, she researched her family genealogy – tracing her roots and making contact with many relatives. She was well-versed on Kansas history and traveled to interesting places across the state of Kansas and the southwest part of the country.
Ann grew up in Montezuma then attended Kansas State Teachers College in Emporia, Kansas. She delayed starting her teaching career to raise her sons. She attended KSTC a second time to earn a master’s degree. She started her teaching career in Strong City, Kansas and finished her career at Appanoose Grade School, teaching first grade there from 1969 to 1988. She had the privilege of teaching three of her grandchildren: Stewart, Scott and Anthony Purcell. She left a lasting legacy of kindness, patience, and a quick wit and may students still remember her.
Ann spent her last few years at Ottawa Retirement Village. Her memory faded but she could still remember Christian songs from childhood and loved singing in her room and the common area.
Ann was preceded in death by her husband Mick, parents Raymond and Sarah, brother Raymond and son Tom. She is survived by four sons and their wives: Craig and Aletta of Pomona, KS, Andy and Chelli of Fort Collins, CO, Matt and Judy of Colorado Springs, CO and Steven and Cathy of Alexandria, VA. She also leaves 11 grandchildren, Stewart, Scott, Anthony, Michael, Meghan, Josh, Erika, Kristen, Kayla, Sarah, Tess and eight great grandchildren.
A celebration of life service will be Sunday afternoon, May 29, 2016 at 2:00 p.m. at the Centropolis Christian Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at http://www.alz.org/join_the_cause_donate.asp or by calling 1-800-272-3900