Southaven, MS –
CONSTANCE JEAN PURDY GILBERT was a devoted mother, wife, and award winning poet. Her life began in the gulf breeze of Panama City, FL, a product of the great post World War II baby boom that defined “Teenager,” Rebel,” and “Party.” Big sky country of Missoula, MT with cattle ranchers, rodeo riders, and travels on horseback became the backdrop of her childhood. Early adulthood was the space needle of Seattle, Alaskan Airline, and the university night life of the pacific Northwest. Phoenix, AZ landscaped where she rocked out in the music scene, fell into an eternal love, married, had children, and prepared for the last move of her life: Mississippi. In Mississippi she became a member (and, at times, President) of the Friends of the Library, and then worked for M.R. Davis Public Library till her retirement. She loved books, karaoke, the arts, her family, and a great party. She touched many lives, inspired us to be the best people we can be, volunteer whenever and wherever possible, and love each other to the fullest because family – however it may be defined – is everything. She is survived by her loving husband of 39 years, Dearl Wayne Gilbert of Southaven, MS; her children, Bridget Purdy Gilbert of Laurel, MS, Amanda Purdy Gilbert of Southaven, Dearl Wayne Gilbert II of Hernando, MS; her siblings, William Purdy and Robert Irigon of Seattle, WA, Mary and David Killgrove of Suntan Valley, AZ, Diane Pettigrew of Albuquerque, NM, John Purdy and Kim Croswhite of Bothell, WA; and extended family and friends worldwide. Visitation will be Thursday, August 20 from 12 p.m. until the memorial service begins at 2 p.m. at Twin Oaks Funeral Home in Southaven. In lieu of flowers, bring a copy of your favorite book for the Connie Gilbert Memorial Book Drive.
Condolences(5)-
-
-
-
-
Previous WILLIAM BAILEY “BUZZ” SPENCER, JR
Next RODNEY DANE RIALES
Jaime Boler says
June 10, 2017 at 3:22 pmYou are all in my thoughts and prayers. Unfortunately, I never got to meet Mrs. Connie, but if she was anything like her daughter, Bridget, then she was a helluva amazing lady!
Cabdace & Al Adkison says
June 10, 2017 at 3:22 pmWe are so sorry to read of your loss. Our prayers are with you.
Heather Ford says
June 10, 2017 at 3:22 pmIf I could attend I would die my hair purple in honor of my Aunt Connie who always made me laugh with her stories and her jokes. She was such a fun loving person and I will always remember her when I look at a jar of mayo. All my love to my cousins and Uncle during this tough time.
Samantha "Da Bomb" Booker says
June 10, 2017 at 3:22 pmSamantha “Da Bomb” Booker
I worked with Connie at the M R Davis library over a decade ago. I loved to find excuses to visit her as she was repairing and cataloging books. She was one of the most FUN people I have ever known and I’ve thought of her often since we parted ways. Connie gave me the nickname ” Da Bomb” which served as a great source of entertainment. She will be missed by many.
Sam Cheyne says
June 10, 2017 at 3:22 pmConnie was one the most wonderful person and had a heart for everyone. I first met her at Highline High School and continued to socialize with her friends and family. She was a great “sock hop” coordinator and ensured that everyone got involved with the affiliations with the Sea Scout boat the SES HI-LINER. Her organization skills were wonderful, ensuring the social parties were clean and fun. I never herd her complain about anyone or anything, except for me being an “under classman.” She was the class of 1964 and I was in the class of 1965. She loved her job at the Library where she lived. She saw a lot of really neat people and famous people. She will be missed and I share my love for her in a very special way. Farewell Connie. Many of the Sea Scouts will miss you. Well Done Connie.