Connie Louise Purves

Connie Louise Purves, age 80, passed away on Thursday, January 22, 2026. She was born on December 9, 1945, in Concordia, Kansas to Max and Maxine (Naillieux) Sterling.

Connie grew up in Concordia and moved to Clifton in the late 70’s. She married Michael D. Purves on May 23, 1980. Throughout the years Connie worked for Mount Joseph Senior Village as a nurse’s aide, as well as Ideal Market and Ray’s Apple Market as a cashier, retiring in the early 2000’s. Connie was known for her love of jewelry. She was rarely spotted without her fingernails painted and rings adorning every finger. Connie had a large collection of Angels and Beanie Babies and loved Elvis Presley. She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary as well as the VFW Auxiliary.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her infant son, Quenton Kenneth Long; her sisters, Bernita Wilda Basnett, Martha Lou Perret, and Kathryn Ann Rodgers; and her brother, Harold Lloyd Sterling.

Connie is survived by her husband, Michael D. Purves, of the home; her two sons, Carroll L. Long, Jr. (Megan) of Salina and Curtis L. Long (Andrea) of Clifton; and her brother, Kenneth Sterling of Clifton. She was the proud grandmother of Mitchell Long, Isabella Finch, Airika Ohlde, Ethan Long, and Trent Long. Her legacy also lives on through her 10 great-grandchildren and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Honoring Connie's wishes, no formal funeral services are planned at this time. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions for Connie can be made to the Clifton Park Improvement Fund, sent in care of Neill-Schwensen-Rook Funeral Home, 918 7th St., Clay Center, Kansas 67432.