Judith Purcell

Judith "Judy" L. Purcell, 77, of Ottawa, Illinois passed away Monday, April 27, 2015 at OSF St. Elizabeth Medical Center. Memorials Mass will be held at 11:00 AM Thursday April 30, 2015 at St. Francis of Assisi Church with Rev. Augustin Kassa officiating. Visitation will be 9:30 to 10:30 AM at Ottawa Funeral Home. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery in Ottawa . Judy had the voice of an angel, a heart as big as Texas, the patience of a saint, an eye for interior design and aesthetics and the ability to whip up a wonderful meal in a pinch with just about anything. She could turn a simple piece of material into a beautiful prom dress, an elegant wedding dress, a simple shift, a beautiful hand stitched quilt. She magically transformed well worn furniture into pieces that graced the living rooms of many local homes including her own. She was proud of everything she crafted with her heart and her hands, including her five children and her husband Don. She welcomed everyone into her home with open arms. Whether invited or not family and friends wouldn't think of missing one of Judy's holiday celebrations. They didn't simply come for the food, but for the opportunity to share the laughter, warmth, and spirit of the occasion. On Christmas she made sure that everyone had a gift to open - family and visiting friends. She had her "go-to" catch phrases. "You can't see around corners." "Don't make me call your father." Don't make me count to three." But the one that she is most remembered by is "When one door closes, another will open." The most important door opened for mom today. She will receive a loving welcome by her son Ron, her mother and father, George and Julia Clark, her brother Vince and her four legged family Barney, Annie, and Burber. Judy's memory will be kept alive by her many friends and family; her husband Don, her daughters Kathy and Patti, her sons Brian and Clark, her grandchildren Justin, Brandon and Georgia, her great grand daughter Bailey. The online guest book may be viewed and remembrances shared at www.ottawafuneralhome.com Ottawa Funeral Home & Crematory 1111 LaSalle St, Ottawa Illinois 61350 815-433-0300 www.ottawafuneralhome.com