Vicki grew up in Atherton, Missouri, and graduated from Ft. Osage High School in 1969. Her lifelong passions and skills blossomed during her time as a Girl Scout, where she cherished many adventures with her troop, her mother, and her Aunt Wanda.
After high school, Vicki embarked on a successful 35-year career with Sear, Roebuck & Co. in Kansas City. She relocated with the company to Mesquite, Texas, and later Naperville, Illinois, before returning to Kansas City in retirement.
It was at Sears where Vicki met her future husband, Larry Purvis. They were married on December 18, 1976, and together they created a beautiful life. At Sears, they were affectionately referred to as Barbie and Ken. Vicki remained close friends with co-workers everywhere who were with her in her last weeks.
Vicki’s kindness was a hallmark of her character. She had a unique ability to connect with everyone she met, making them feel special and valued. Her gift for remembering names made people feel included in her world, and she treated everyone with warmth and respect. She was always the first to lend a helping hand to neighbors, friends and family.
She loved gardening and created beautiful landscapes everywhere she lived. An avid reader, she enjoyed impromptu book club discussions and exchanging titles with friends.
Vicki will be deeply missed by her family, her close-knit “squad,” her partner in mischief, Debbie, and everyone whose lives she touched.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, Larry Purvis; her parents, Oris and Leona Garland; and siblings Sandra “Sandy” Sue Swenson and David Oris Garland.
Vicki is survived by her stepdaughters, Joy Purvis and Dawn (Steven) Lyles; her grandchildren: Brett (Jessica) Reynolds, Dylan Hays, Shelby (Chad) Shelkett, Shayla (Jordan) Legg, and Chase Lyles, and 17 great-grandchildren; her siblings: Dennis (Vickie) Garland, John (Sarah) Garland, and Tony (Tisha) Garland; eight nieces and nephews; and several great-nieces and great-nephews.
Visitation
Odessa Church of Christ Saturday, October 19, 2024
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
210 N. 4th Street
Odessa, MO 64076
Memorial Service
Odessa Church of Christ Saturday, October 19, 2024
1:00 PM
210 N. 4th Street
Odessa, MO 64076
