Obituary of Father Dean Purdy

Father Dean Kingsbury Purdy passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, January 19, 2024. Born on December 8, 1935, in Ottawa to Douglas and Grace (Kingsbury) Purdy, Father Purdy was an esteemed alumnus of Ryerson, Bishop’s, Oxford and the University of Toronto (Trinity College).

Survived by his wife Helen, and children Kelvin, Jennifer, Laura, and Elizabeth, along with grandchildren Stephanie and Kimberly, Father Purdy was predeceased by his sister Lyn Kerr and is also remembered by his sisters Dianne Hains, Gail Purdy, and Sharon Tranborg (Kerry), sister-in-law Mary (Don), brother-in-law Manson (Christiane), as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Father Purdy was admitted to the holy Order of Priests of the Anglican Church of Canada on March 19, 1968. Throughout his devoted service, he ministered in various parishes, including Smiths Falls, Metcalfe, Vernon, Greely, Russell, St. Stephen’s Ottawa, Huntley, Navan, Bearbrook, Vars, St. Lawrence East and Cornwall. Additionally, he served as a Chaplain at Lakefield College School.

Following retirement from the Anglican Church, he was Ordained for the Archdiocese of Kingston in 2005, five years after Father Dean and Helen had become Roman Catholic. He served in the parishes of Perth, Lanark and Spencerville. Following that, he was available to celebrate Sunday Masses in various parishes of the Archdiocese until retiring from active ministry in 2019. Father Dean was blessed to be able to remain at Rosebank, their home along Bass Lake, until the time of his death. His vibrant and joyful faith, outgoing personality, lively sense of humour, and love for God and people endeared him to others wherever he went.

Father Purdy will lie in state in St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, 17 Elmsley St. N., Smiths Falls on Thursday, January 25, 2024 from 6-8 pm, with the Vigil Service at 7 pm. Visitation will continue in the church on Friday from 9-10:45 am, followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 am. A luncheon will be served in the nearby Hanley Hall. Interment will take place at a later date.

As we mourn the loss of a remarkable individual, we acknowledge the invaluable contributions of his healthcare workers. Their selfless dedication leaves an enduring impact, not only on the life of Dean but also on the hearts of all those who were touched by their care.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to the Alzheimer’s Society or charity of your choice.

May Father Dean rest in the peace and joy of the Risen Lord.