Obituary of Rita Myrtle Purcell

Purcell, Rita Myrtle
Rita passed peacefully at home on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at the age of 103.  Beloved wife of the late Edward Purcell.  Rita was predeceased by her parents Harold and Myrtle Ormrod, sister Elaine Condie, special nephew Clayton Holbrook and survived by niece Amanda (Babe) Dizzell.  Rita will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by the entire Holbrook family, and many friends and neighbours.  Rita was proud of her teaching career at P & D.C.I. from 1965 – 1980 and served as former deputy mayor and long-time counsellor of Rideau Lakes Township.  She was a faithful long-time parishioner of St. John’s Anglican Church and member of St. John’s Parish  Council over past years serving in many roles including Rector’s Warden and People’s Warden.  Rita was especially proud of being a recipient of Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.  Family and friends may pay their respects at the Blair & Son Funeral Home, Smiths Falls on Friday, October 31, 2025 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.  Funeral service will be held at St. John’s Anglican Church, Smiths Falls on Saturday, November 1, 2025 at 1:30 p.m.  Interment will take place at Hillcrest Cemetery followed by a reception and celebration of life at the Blair & Son Reception Centre.  In memory of Rita, donations to St. John’s Anglican Church would be appreciated.