Velva Lee Pursifull

Velva Lee Pursifull of Ironton, MO, entered into rest on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at the age of 83 years, 2 months, and 21 days. She was born December 30, 1940 in Pampa, TX to the late Robert E. Lee and Eddie (Tucker) Harrah. Velva was surrounded by people who loved her and whom she loved when she left her earthly body. She was a beloved friend to many over her 83 plus years. She helped many and would have given the shirt off her back and her last dollar to help someone. She was a graduate of the school of hard knocks and taught Kathe, her daughter, many important life lessons in their almost 65 years together; understanding the difference between wants and needs was a mantra of hers. Her biggest gift was telling me Kathe she could accomplish anything she set her mind to. Kathe knows she loved her more than life itself —even if she didn’t always like her. She liked to tell Kathe she chose Russ for her and loved him so much —mostly because he is such a loving friend and husband to her and she didn’t need to worry. She chose well. She always enjoyed the simple things in life like watching her birds (both in nature and as an avid Cardinals fan), her gardens of flowers and vegetables, staying connected with her favorite people, rummaging with friends, reading, watching her TV shows, playing cards, good down-home cooking, and making handmade items for special people. She crocheted Hats for Hunger, sewed masks during Covid, passed out a ton of candy on Halloween (and always had a tub of candy for visitors). Kathe always looked forward to their time together canning homemade jellies to gift for Christmas. She was amused that Kathe was as worried about the presentation as the jelly itself. She made fried chocolate pies, biscuits and gravy, Orange Julius drinks, and the best chow chow and relish anyone ever had. She loved animals, instilled in Kathe a love for them, and had many beloved pets throughout her lifetime. We imagine there was quite a menagerie waiting for her on the other side. She leaves behind her only child, Kathe(rine) Carnahan, her adored son-in-law, Russell Leeker, friends that were family, her beloved pooch, Jodi, of 18 years, Turtle, who she’d had for 51 years, and a recently-rescued kitten, Sandy, who brought much life to the house. Kathe doesn’t think Velva would want people being sad at her passing but would want us to understand our time on earth is short and none of us are guaranteed tomorrow. Be kind, loving, and enjoy life every chance you get. Rest in Peace, Velva, We Love You and Will Miss You. No formal services are planned at this time.

Velva Lee Pursifull

December 30, 1940 - March 20, 2024