STEPHEN CLAUDE PURDY

Stephen Claude Purdy, 89, of Lancaster passed away on Sunday, November 13, 2011, after a brief illness. Born June 13, 1922 in McDonough, New York, he was the son of the late Claude E. and Ellen (Skillman) Purdy. He was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Elizabeth M. (Vigus) Purdy on July 20, 1997. He moved to Lancaster in 1950 to work for Steinman Hardware. He continued working as a hardware consultant until his retirement. Steve was a member of the American Society of Architectural Hardware Consultants. He was a faithful member and Life Vestry Member of St. James Episcopal church serving as both People’s Warden and Rector’s Warden. Over the years he was active all areas of church life including teaching Sunday School, leading prayer groups, Property Committee, Finance Committee, Usher, Eucharistic Visitor, Greeter, Tour Guide, and much more. He also served in the Diocese of Central Pennsylvania on several committees. In later years, he was a volunteer for Hospice of Lancaster County. He was active in two local square dance clubs, Do Pas O and Grand Squares. Steve was an active foster parent, with Betty, to 88 foster babies and children enriching each young life they touched. Surviving are six children, Melody A., wife of James R. Lewis of Columbia Crossroads, PA; Frederick C., husband of Yvonne Gombach of Rocky River, OH; Beth E., wife of John Creager of Katy, TX; Timothy S., husband of Leslie Suess of Cumberland, MD; Phillip C., husband of Susan Neitz of Lancaster; Roger J., husband of Krystal Durbin of Leola; 9 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one grandson, David S. Creager. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, November 16, 2011, at 2:00 p.m. at St. James Episcopal Church, 119 N. Duke Street, Lancaster, PA 17602 with concelebrants, The Reverend David W. Peck and The Reverend Thomas C. Purdy. Interment will take place at St. James Memorial Garden. Family will receive friends immediately before the service from 1:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Friends and family are invited to a reception in the Parish House following the service. In lieu of flowers, donations in Steve’s memory can made to St. James Episcopal Church designated to the Gifts Across Generations, Capital Campaign or to Hospice of Lancaster County, 685 Good Drive, Box 4125, Lancaster, PA 17604.

STEPHEN CLAUDE PURDY

November 15, 2011