Teresa Eileen Purvis (75) of Newark, Delaware, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2024. Born in Keokuk, Iowa, on September 18, 1948, she was the cherished daughter of the late John and Isabelle (née Ellison) Cox and the devoted wife of 56 years to the late Steven Purvis, who passed away in 2023.

Teresa graduated from Cardinal Stritch High School in Keokuk, Iowa, Class of 1967. It was during her high school years that she met Steven, the love of her life. After their marriage, the couple embarked on a new journey together taking them from Iowa to Toledo, Ohio and finally Newark, Delaware. Both had distinguished careers at the Dupont Corporation, with Teresa excelling as an administrative assistant and Steven as a computer data analyst.

Teresa was a woman of many passions and talents. Her love for gardening was evident in her beautiful, lush garden, which she tended to with great care. As an active member and past president of the local garden club, she shared her knowledge and enthusiasm with fellow gardening enthusiasts. Teresa was also a gifted quilter, creating heirlooms that will be treasured for generations. She also enjoyed swimming and made great friends in the Mermaids swim group.

Traveling was another of Teresa’s great loves. She had an adventurous spirit and made it to 5 continents, usually travelling with her cherished sister-in-law Agnes Cox.  Her journeys enriched her life and provided countless stories to share with friends and family.

Teresa’s affection for animals, especially dogs, was well-known. She lovingly cared for many dogs over the years, each one holding a special place in her heart. Her compassionate nature extended to her interactions with people as well. Teresa was a natural conversationalist and never met a stranger. Her warmth, kindness, and genuine interest in others made her a beloved figure in her West Branch neighborhood.

In addition to her parents and husband, Teresa was preceded in death by her brother, Larry Cox, and her sister, Judy Dodge. She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories with her son, Stuart and his wife, Debra, of Lorain, Ohio and special friends Rachel Rubino, the Doordan and Riggs families of Newark.

A celebration of Teresa’s life will be held on Friday, July 19, 2024, at 7:00 PM at The R. T. Foard & Jones Funeral Home, 122 West Main Street, Newark, Delaware. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to “The Delaware Humane Society,” 701 A Street, Wilmington, DE 19801.

Teresa’s radiant spirit, compassionate heart, and joyful presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her legacy of love, kindness, and generosity will continue to inspire and uplift those who had the privilege of knowing her.