Cynthia R. Purcell, age 75, of Crossville, passed away December 24, 2019. She was born December 3, 1944 in Crossville, the daughter of Charles F. and Margaret E. West Girdley. She was an educator for more than 45 years with the Cumberland County School System.

She is survived by her son: John “Bart” Purcell (Tonia) of Soddy Daisy; daughter: Robin Lynch of Crossville; grandchildren: John Purcell II, Jared Purcell, Tori Robbins and Stella Adams; great-grandson: Jaxon Jenkins; sisters: Jackie Richards (Joel) and Judy Raines (Jim) of Crossville; and several special nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother: Tommy Girdley; and son-in-law: Matt Houston.

Funeral services will be held Sunday December 29, 2019 at 2 p.m. at Hood Funeral Home. The family will receive friends Saturday December 28, 2019 from 3 to 6 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be in Linary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family has respectfully asked that you honor Cindy’s legacy of promoting and instilling the value and love of reading by making donations for the purchase of children’s books to be donated to the local schools. Please send donations to PO Box 506, Crossville, TN 38557.