Phila Purdy died peacefully January 25th in her apartment at Royal Oaks in Bradbury, California, at age 100.
The youngest of four children, Phila was born in College Place, Washington, to Emma and Dorsey Nichols.
As a student at Walla Walla College, she met Mervyn Purdy who became her husband of 69 years. After marrying in 1939, they moved to Southern California, where Merv completed medical school in Loma Linda.
Following Merv’s service in the Army, the Purdys moved to La Cañada Flintridge in 1949, where Merv established his medical practice and Phila was an active member of the community. She volunteered in Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, the Assistance League and local schools. She enjoyed membership in Oakmont Country Club and was renowned among family and friends as an excellent cook and hostess as well as a talented artist.
Tragically, her son Dennis died in 1964 and son Gary in 1981. In 2010, following the death of her husband, Phila moved to Royal Oaks.
Phila is survived by her daughter and son-in-law Corrine and Tom Tomlinson, six grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. She will be laid to rest in a private, family service.
