Mr. George Randall "Randy" Purdy

George Randall “Randy” Purdy, 74, of DeWitt, Arkansas, passed away on December 27, 2024, at DeWitt Nursing Home. Randy was born in DeWitt on January 7, 1950, to G.W. and Ann Purdy, who preceded him in death. Randy was saved at the age of nine at Landmark Missionary Baptist Church, where he made his commitment to Christ on the eastern front pew. He later became a charter member of Unity Missionary Baptist Church, where he found solace and, in his own words, renewed his faith after a season of worldly wandering. Deeply devoted to Unity Baptist Church, he cherished the opportunity to work with the church’s youth groups, finding great joy in supporting them. Randy loved his country and was profoundly moved by patriotic songs, which often brought tears to his eyes. He attended Southern State College in Magnolia, Arkansas, where he met his former wife, Lanelle Atkinson Purdy, who preceded him in death. Randy’s professional career included work in the steel warehousing industry, hospital administration, and Purdy Manufacturing International which began as his family’s business in DeWitt. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Ricky Purdy; his son, Matthew Aaron Purdy; and an unnamed baby whom he looked forward to meeting in heaven. Randy is survived by his daughter, Kristen Elizabeth Siler (Scott); his son, Jason Alexander Purdy; and his granddaughter, Stormy Cheyene Purdy, whom he and his late wife, Lanelle, adopted. He is also survived by his grandsons, Landon Chlapecka, Sean Siler, and Shane Siler. Randy’s grandchildren knew him as their devoted and caring “Poppy.” He is further survived by his sister, Rachelle McCarty (Tim), as well as several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. His greatest wish was for his children, grandchildren, and extended family to know how deeply he loved them. Visitation will be held on Monday, December 30, 2024, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Essex Funeral Home in DeWitt. Randy's celebration service will be held on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at 10 a.m. at Unity Missionary Baptist Church in DeWitt followed by a graveside service at Cedarcrest Memorial Gardens in DeWitt. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Unity Missionary Baptist Church, 823 W. Fourth St., DeWitt, AR 72042, or simply keep Randy in your prayers and honor his memory by showing love to your family and community.

Mr. George Randall "Randy" Purdy

January 7, 1950 - December 27, 2024