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Deborah Kathleen Elder Purvis, age 73, of Monroe, GA, went to be with her Lord and Savior in Heaven on Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024.

Debbie was born in LaGrange, GA on April 19, 1951, and was the only child of her parents, Alfred Donald and Fairy Phillips Elder.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and, her son, Payton Michael Purvis.

Debbie earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Elementary Education from West Georgia College. While there she was an active Member of Alpha Phi Rho, the first sorority on campus, which later became the national sorority, Phi Mu.

It was at West Georgia where she met the love of her life, Mike Purvis. Debbie and Mike were married on April 18, 1971, and celebrated 53 years of marriage on April 18, 2024.

Debbie was a kindergarten teacher for 25 years for the Clayton, Henry, and Walton County Schools in Georgia. In 2014 she retired from the Walton County Schools after teaching Pre-K at Atha Road Elementary. She loved her students, and they loved her in return.

Debbie is survived by her loving husband, Mike; son, Nathan Purvis and wife Mary of Watkinsville, GA; their children, Nathan, Jr., Julia, and Rose; ex-daughter-in-law, Genevieve Purvis and children, Addisyn and Payton; daughter-in-law, Gretchen Purvis and children, Emma and Chase.

Debbie was a faithful founding member of Holy Cross Cathedral in Loganville, GA. It was evident to all who knew her that she was a Christian woman of strong faith. It was because of her strong faith that she was able to handle life’s challenges.

Debbie loved each of her family members greatly and was very proud of each of them. She demonstrated that love through the time she spent with them; family trips; and preparing delicious meals for them.

Throughout her life she had dogs that meant the world to her- Nugget, Kaiser, Marshall, Pippa, and Ella Kate.

A friend to all, Debbie, never met a stranger. She was a beautiful southern lady who was relatable to everyone she met. Her magnetic personality was obvious, which encouraged people to want to get to know her; therefore, she had a large array of friends who loved her.

Debbie was inclusive and inviting, she loved having people around her. She had a great talent for making people laugh until their sides hurt.

Debbie also enjoyed traveling with family and friends. One of her many talents was organizing trips for anyone who wanted to participate.

A service celebrating Debbie’s life will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2024 at 11 A.M. at Holy Cross Cathedral 3836 Oak Grove Road, Loganville, GA 30052 with a reception to follow at the church.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to: Holy Cross Cathedral (Memo line of check- Debbie Purvis Memorial) Mail to; Holy Cross Cathedral, P.O. Box 776. Loganville, GA 30052.

Arrangements by Tim Stewart Funeral Home, 209 South Hammond Drive, Monroe, Georgia 30655. 770-267-2594. Please sign the online guest registry at www.stewartfh.com