With profound sadness we announce the passing of Edra Elaine Purcell Embry, our loving and devoted great-grandmother, grandmother, mother and friend to all whose lives she touched departed this life on August 12, 2022, at the age of 86. Edra Embry was born on May 28, 1936, to Vivian Shook Purcell and Clyde Purcell of Belair, Il. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband of 53 years, James P. Embry.
Edra Embry is survived by her brother, Donal Purcell; daughters Jo Ann (Douglas) Lang, Linda (Jack) Harwell, son Alan (Crystal) Embry; grandchildren Joshua (Kara) Lang, Erin (Blake) Randolph, Amelia (Caleb) Smithson, Rebecca Harwell, Lindsey (Jonah) Perkins, Cameron Embry; and great-grandchildren, Brecken Lang, Rowynn Lang, Augustus Lang, Gwendolyn Smithson, Madilyn Smithson, David Smithson, Alexander Perkins; many nieces, nephews, brothers and sister-in-laws.
Edra Embry was a member of the Kirkwood Church of Christ for many years. She was strong in her faith with a determined spirit to follow Christ and to meet the needs of her family. In her later years as a loving Grandmother and Great Grandmother her greatest joys was to hear the stories and the laughter of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The thought of which always warmed her heart and brought a smile to her face.
In lieu of flowers, charitable donations can be made to the de Greef Hospice House, 10024 Kennerly Road, Saint Louis, MO. 63128
So sorry for her passing. She was a lovely, sweet lady.
This was my wife’s aunt. Edra and her late husband Jim opened their home to us when our daughter was hospitalized at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. She was very kind, compassionate, and made us feel like family. Our prayers to the family, as they mourn the loss of their mother.
Aunt Edra was always laughing and smiling. She really enjoyed life and made everyone around her feel happy. She was a great example of a Christian lady.
Alan, I just heard, my heartfelt sympathy and sincerest condolences to you and the entire family. One of the most sweetest and most devoted Christian women I have ever known. She was my first Bible school teacher, and I still remember her complimenting me on my orange lamb and purple shepherd David. I sat at her dinner table numerous times and was always treated like a King and as family. What a Sweetheart!! I spoke often to my wife of Miss Edra’s loving heart. I am at a loss for words. All I can think of.. I look forward to being with her again. God Bless All of You.