Mary Kathryn Purcell, 94, of Terre Haute, celebrated her homecoming in heaven on Thursday morning, March 21, 2013. She was born February 22, 1919, to Albert D. Campbell and Jesse Foxworthy Campbell in Pimento. She attended Gerstmeyer Technical High School in Terre Haute and Milady's Beauty Academy. She married Clyde Purcell on July 1, 1935. After his death in 1958, she operated The Sophisticate Beauty Shoppe in her home for 30 years to provide and care for her family. One definition of motherhood "the giving over of oneself to the life of another" is a perfect description of her, as she was one who always put the needs of others above her own. Her cheerful attitude, strength of character, and positive outlook on life were amazing, and she was an inspiration to all who knew and loved her. Truly "her children rise up and call her blessed" Proverbs 31:28 She was a loving mother and a blessing to her children who survive her: Peggy Purcell Hanna (William), Larry Purcell (Diane), and Judy Purcell, all of Terre Haute. She is also survived by four grandchildren, Kim Baer Cowden (Clark), Kevin Kerns (Kimberlee), Kathy Cottom (Brian), and Brittany Purcell Cardona (Luis); three step grandchildren, Jamie Trout, Danielle Trout, and Shawn Paulin (Jessica); ten great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, several nieces and nephews, and special friend and caregiver, Hallie Fox. Preceding her in death were her parents, her husband, three sisters, two brothers, and a granddaughter, Paige Purcell Burdine. Visitation will be held at Callahan & Hughes Funeral Home at 605 South 25th St. from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 23, 2013. The funeral service will follow at 3:00 p.m. with Pastor Kyle Andrews officiating. A private burial will be at Hull Cemetary. The family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to VNA Hospice of the Wabash Valley, 400 8th Avenue, Terre Haute, 47804. Envelopes will be provided at the funeral home.
