Virginia Lee Swicegood Purifoy

Virginia Lee Swicegood Purifoy, passed away on March 31, 2025, at the age of 97. Born on December 2, 1927, in Little Rock, Arkansas, Virginia lived a life filled with love, laughter, and a dedication to family.

Virginia's career was marked by her time as a teacher's aide at the Little Rock School District from 1972 to 1974, and later, she retired after many years of service as a data entry clerk in the billing department at UAMS. She was a woman of many talents, always staying active and engaged in her community. Known for her spunky personality, she was affectionately dubbed the "Neighborhood Dentist" by local parents who relied on her to pull their children’s teeth, showcasing her willingness to lend a hand and care for those around her, even while in labor and on her way to the hospital with her third child, she still made time for those dental visits.

An avid enthusiast of bingo, reading, and word searches, Virginia found joy in the simple pleasures of life, often enjoying these activities while waiting for her coffee to brew. She also delighted her family with her famous "Jean's Zucchini Bread," a treat that will be fondly remembered by all who tasted it.

Virginia's proudest accomplishments include a love story that began after World War II when she met and married James David Purifoy "JD," in 1947. Together, they created a nurturing home in Detroit, where they raised three wonderful children. While in Detroit, she became a member of the Eastern Star.  In 1967, her passion for music led her to do studio work at Motown. After moving to Arkansas in 1971, Virginia and JD became active members of the Elk's Club, .

She leaves behind her cherished family, including her children: Pam Purifoy Capehart (Charles) of Olathe, KS, Jim Purifoy (Becky) of Lee's Summit, MO, and Kevin Purifoy (Pat) of Little Rock, AR. Virginia was a proud grandmother to Nick Purifoy (Kate) of Prairie Village, KS, Alex Purifoy of New York City, NY, Amanda Capehart-May (Jeremiah) of Olathe, KS, and Lindsey Capehart of New York City, NY. Her heart was full as she embraced her great-granddaughter, Madeline May of Prairie Village, KS, along with a host of friends and family who will deeply miss her.

Virginia is preceded in death by her parents, Ike and Loti Swicegood, and her siblings: Ike Swicegood, John Swicegood, Joann Shackleford, Nita Swicegood, Anne Sniff, Margie Douglass, and Lena May Irby.

A visitation for Virginia will be held on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Smith Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct., Little Rock, AR. The funeral service will follow at 11:00 AM, with burial taking place at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock at 1:00 PM.

The family would like to thank first and foremost Briarwood and all of the staff. A special thank you to her PCP, Dr. Pounders at Autumn Rd. and staff, Dr. Jesse Abeler at Bowen and Helfley Orthopedics and staff, Baptist Health Physical Therapist, Mary Claire, and Home Instead caregiver, Verda Brown.

In lieu of flowers, in honor of Virginia's giving nature, please donate to Wounded Warriors Project, Children's Hospital, or Meals on Wheels.

Virginia Lee Swicegood Purifoy leaves behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and dedication to family, forever etched in the hearts of those she touched.