Her parents, Aaron Watson and Mary Martin Lynch, her husband, William Wesley Purser and two sisters Mary Elizabeth Lynch Hill and Martha Ellen Lynch Lowman, preceded her in death.
Ruth was born on February 14, 1933, in Henrietta, NC.
She was a graduate of Greensboro College.
She was an educator, serving as a full time teacher before becoming a substitute teacher and tutor for many years.
Prior to moving to North Carolina, she served as President of the Junior Woman’s Club in Fort Valley, GA, receiving the Irene Watts Outstanding Club Member Award.
She was also a member of the Gourmet Club of Perry, GA, the Perry Art Club, the Bridge Club, and taught wedding cake decorating on the PBS station.
She was active in the Episcopal Church while in Georgia and North Carolina.
While at Saint Mary’s of High Point, she led numerous programs in the church including the Matthew 25:40 Outreach Group, chairing the 100th Anniversary of Saint Mary’s, Youth Group leader, and more.
She was a long-serving board member of the Piedmont School, and received the Governor’s award for Senior Volunteer of the Year for her service.
She also served as a board member of the Urban Ministry and Habitat for Humanity.
Purser was an accomplished oil painter and served as President of the Oak Hollow Square Dance Club.
She was a loving wife, mother and friend to many. She always looked for the best in all people. She laughed a lot, served others constantly and was kind to everyone.
Three sons, Allen Wesley Purser and daughter-in-law Jan Moore Purser, Lee Edward Purser and daughter-in-law Molly Ferris Purser, and Martin Lynch Purser survive her.
All three were Eagle Scouts and college graduates.
She is also survived by four grandchildren: Rebecca Michelle Purser, Katlyn Emily Purser, Sara Katherine Purser and Aaron Thomas Purser, an Eagle Scout, numerous nieces and nephews and a multitude of friends.
A celebration of her life will be held at Saint Mary’s Episcopal Church in High Point, NC at 11am on May 18th.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Piedmont School at 815 Old Mill Rd, High Point, NC 27265, or the Parkinson’s Foundation at parkinson.org
