Kenneth Crist Purvis

Kenneth "Kenny" Crist Purvis, 67, of Rustburg, was welcomed into the kingdom of Heaven, Tuesday, September 16, 2014, at his residence. He was the husband of Vanessa Purvis. He was born July 16, 1947, a son of the late Tom Atley and Sarah Crist Purvis of Lovingston. He was the eldest of their two sons.

He was preceded in death by his brother Gordon Massie Purvis.

He is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Vanessa Hines Purvis; mother, Sarah Purvis; three children Christy Viar, Michael Purvis (Tamara), and Sheena Frost (Brian); five grandchildren, Fallon Viar, Seth Pezanko, Zachary Pezanko, Bianca Cothran, and Brooklyn Frost; Sister-in-law, Virginia Mae "Sissy" Purvis; and three nieces, Melanie Gowell, Kelly Woodson and Misty Purvis.

Kenny lived his life to the fullest and in the process touched the lives of so many, which can be seen through his countless number of friends. His passion was to graciously serve others in any capacity he could, while making his daily rounds to check on his family and friends. Kenny was a remarkable person and truly a gift from God to all who had the pleasure of knowing him. He loved God, his community, and remained an amazing husband, loving father and grandfather until the end. He took great pride in taking care of his family, telling jokes, and telling stories of his "glory" days. An amazing athlete in his prime, he was drafted by the Orioles in the 4th round of the 1965 MLB draft out of Nelson County High School. His baseball career was cut short when he was drafted to Vietnam where he served his country proudly in the U.S. Army.

Kenny was employed by and retired from Joseph A. Sanzone and Associates. He took great pride in his work as an investigator.

A memorial service will be conducted at 12 p.m. Saturday, September 20, 2014, at New Chapel Baptist Church in Rustburg with Rev. John P. Campbell officiating. Military Honors will be presented by the American Legion Post 16.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that contributions be made to the American Cancer Society.