It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Marguerite C. Purnell, who left us on June 21, 2026, at the age of 81. Born on April 24, 1945, in Illinois, Marguerite spent most of her life in North Vernon, IN, where she created a warm and welcoming home for her family and friends.

A proud graduate of Connersville High School in 1963, Marguerite married Richard Purnell and together they raised four wonderful kids: Shelly, Rich, Josh, and Greg. She wore many hats throughout her life, starting as a beautician before taking a break to focus on raising her family. Years later, she opened the Melting Pot Coffee House & Smoothie Bar with her daughter Shelly, where they shared countless laughs and memories as they served their community.

Marguerite also dedicated over twenty years of her life to Muscatatuck State Developmental Center and later spent time at Stonebelt, always bringing her warmth and kindness to those around her. She was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and embraced her faith throughout her journey.

Marguerite loved to travel with her daughter Shelly and had a knack for cooking that delighted her family. She had a passion for collecting blown glass balls which she collected an abundance of in every color from around the world. She also collected dolls, and rosaries and was known for her love of all things sparkly and glittery. Her family gatherings were filled with joy, laughter, and the light she brought into all their lives.

Marguerite is survived by her loving children, Shelly Young of Cincinnati, Rich (Beth) Purnell of Denver, CO, and Josh (Heather) Purnell of St. Augustine, FL, and Greg Purnell of Grand Junction, CO; her dear sisters, Jennifer (David) Hildreth of Carmel, Stephanie Harvey of Manhattan, KS and Andrea (Boone) Brackett of Chicago, IL; brothers, John (Josie) Inman of San Diego, and Tarquin Inman of San Francisco, CA; and her treasured grandchildren: Chloe Young, Simon Young, Rocco Purnell, Scarlett Purnell, and Mazzy Purnell, along with her great-granddaughter, Stella Ott.

Cremation will take place, and arrangements for a celebration of Marguerite's life will be made one day in October. Family and friends are invited to gather to share memories and honor the incredible woman she was.

Sawyer - Pickett Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Marguerite will be deeply missed but remembered with love and fondness by all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, joy, and a spirit that shone brightly in all our lives.

Marguerite was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Purnell; parents, William Jake and Peggy Campbell Inman; brothers, Jeff and Michael Inman; sister, Mary Jacinta.