Stephen Jeffery Purdy

Stephen Jeffery Purdy, affectionately known as "Steve," passed away peacefully on June 23, 2026, at the age of 73.

Steve was born on December 19, 1952, in Oakland, California, and most recently made his home in Lawrenceville, Georgia. He proudly served his country in the United States Army as a Parachute Rigger at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Following his military service, Steve dedicated more than four decades of his life to serving others, first as a police officer in Florida and Georgia and later as a private investigator before retiring in 2023.

A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Steve lived his faith through quiet acts of kindness and service. Whether helping a neighbor, sharing a laugh, or offering words of encouragement, he sought to make life better for those around him.

Steve found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved bass fishing, golfing, woodworking, and beekeeping. He enjoyed working with his hands, spending time outdoors, and creating things that reflected both his skill and patience. His many hobbies were matched only by his generous spirit.

More than anything, Steve loved people. His family shared that he was always serving others and had an extraordinary ability to make everyone around him feel seen and valued. Even during life's most difficult moments, he remained steadfast in his faith and compassion.

One memory his family cherishes most is that Steve loved everyone as a kind human being who deserved love and respect. Even in his hardest moments, he found ways to make others laugh because he knew laughter could help heal the heart. He often said that while people may have physical injuries, the deepest wounds are often unseen, and he believed those hidden hurts deserved just as much care and attention. His empathy, wisdom, and unwavering kindness left an immeasurable impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Steve was preceded in death by his father William Vern Purdy and his mother Mary Elizabeth Lamb.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Wanda E. Purdy; his son, Jan Saenvilay; his brother, Donald Purdy of Maryland; his sister-in-law, Joyce Hilwig of Maryland; his sisters, Sandra Molko of Maryland and Donna Cyrus of Maryland, and Kim Kreider (John) of Pennsylvania; his brother, James Purdy of Maryland; and many extended family members and dear friends who will forever treasure his memory.

A visitation will be held from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM on Monday, June 29, 2026 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Lawrenceville, Georgia, with the funeral service beginning at 1:00 PM.

Steve will be laid to rest at Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, Georgia, on Monday, July 6, 2026 at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the American Heart Association in Steve's honor.