Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Holly Purcell
1956 - 2016
Holly Purcell
1956 - 2016
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1956
DIED
2016
Holly Purcell Obituary
Holly was born in Hartford Connecticut on December 27th, 1956 and her family relocated to Phoenix Arizona when she was just six months of age.
In 1983, Holly and Bill started a towing company that is still in operation today. Aside from her dedication to running a successful business, she was a dedicated animal shelter volunteer for the Arizona Animal Welfare League, an avid hiker, a passionate nutritional guru, and most recently developed a love of spending time at her cabin with family and friends.
She was best known for her witty sense of humor and infectious laugh. Holly was truly a friend to everyone that she met and will be sorely missed.
Holly requested to be cremated. Her ashes will remain with her family. In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to the rescue organization of her choice at: http://www.thelostpaws.org/donate/
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Evan Goldberg
July 3, 2016
I'm truly sorry for your loss. I met Holly one time a while back. I remember she always had a smile on her face. She was a great woman and I'm honored I had the chance to meet her. She has a awesome daughter, and husband. My thoughts and prayers are with your entire family.
Evan Goldberg.
June 13, 2016
I only met Holly a couple of times but I do know through Sharon that she was a wonderful person. I know she was adored by many. She put up a very hard fight with this horrible disease. I know that Sharon misses you terribly. R.I.P. Sweet Lady.
April 13, 2016
So sorry, was so wonderful that I got to spend time with her at AAWL, she was loved by many, will be missed by many and always remembered by many. Cancer is a terrible way to go, as is all ways, and it is especially bad at such a young age, a age when she should have been blessed with so many more years to spend with her family and many friends.
John and Grace
April 9, 2016
We are sorry that we did not get to tell you how much you meant to us.your love for life was an inspiration to all. You will be forever in our hearts.
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Ageha Shirley Hervatin
April 4, 2016
I met Holly at the naturopathic clinic where we both went for cancer treatment. We had long talks as we got our IVs. Those hours always flew by as we shared our highs and lows and always laughed a lot. Holly was friendly and full of life, a generous spirit who showed a deep caring for others. Her sweetness and intensity touched my heart. She was a joy to be around.
My rescue girl Jenny
Cher Lindsey
April 3, 2016
Dear Bill and DeeDee,
I was honored to have met Holly through my love of Dobermans in 2009. I was always so grateful for the regular roadside help and Holly's making it easy to find relief.
We helped may Dober kids in need together and I will surely miss that.
Sorry Holly I never made it to the cabin with you but I am happy you thought enough of me to offer.
Missing you!
Cher Phx. AZ
Tracy West
April 1, 2016
My thoughts and prayers are with you now and always. Holly will always hold a special place in my heart.
Destiny Zivica
March 31, 2016
I'm so grateful for the time even if through only rescue that I was able to meet holly and speak with her. She has an amazing soul and a gentle hearted spirit. I wish I had spent more time with her. She touched the lives of so many and will continue to watch over her family and her fur babies. I know she is resting in peace now after years of her battle watching close by and send her love and kisses to everyone in her family. Remember the happy memories and may those rest with you through this difficult time of grief. All our prayers and our love . Destiny & Ryan xo
Joseph Sanchez
March 31, 2016
I'm thinking of you and your family as you celebrate Holly's remarkable life and the memories you shared. A friend to so many and equally loved as well.
Don't be ashamed to weep; 'tis right to grieve. Tears are only water, and trees cannot grow without water. But there must be sunlight also. A wounded heart will heal in time, and when it does, the memory and love of our lost one is sealed inside to comfort us. ~Brian Jacques
Carmela Peters
March 30, 2016
Dear Bill and DeeDee, I had the pleasure of knowing Holly through Inspire and through a mutual friend who introduced us. Holly and I enjoyed sharing information about integrative approaches to treating our cancer. Her spirit was always so full of cheer and light! Bill, your call was a bright spot in my day. Thank you for your kindness in reaching out to those of us who knew Holly. May your memories comfort you both and bring you peace during this difficult time. Holly was loved by many. Rest in peace, friend.
Anjela Dawn
March 29, 2016
I will never forget the first time Holly and I went to lunch. It was a perfect day for dining on the patio,for we were grateful for since there were fewer people around us! She and I laughed so hard we cried for the whole 3 hours we were there. By the time we went home, our faces and stomach muscles hurt!
Anjela Dawn
March 29, 2016
I met and became friends with Holly when I went to work as an ACT at AAWL. Her dedication and compassion were immediately obvious and we worked so well together, and we quickly became friends with the same mission! On the days when the intake side was full to the brim with dogs, she worked so hard just to make sure that together we could give each dog some quality time out of their kennel. When there weren't as many dogs on hand, she and I would get to spend time letting pairs play together. I looked forward to my Monday afternoons with her.
Soon after we met, she told me about her battle with [I don't use the 'C' word] and how fortunate she felt for being able to tolerate treatment so well. She was brave and faced everything head on and no matter what was happening, she held her positive presence proudly and offered her support to everyone in their own personal struggles.
Holly was an amazing jewel that made every life she touched better than it was before meeting her. Her contagious smile and beautiful laughter brought joy to those of us fortunate enough to have been called friend. She will forever be in my heart. To Bill and DeeDee, I extend my sympathies and love.
Patty Reece
March 27, 2016
While she will be missed, Holly is not gone. She will always be the light in my brothers eyes.
Pauline Long
March 27, 2016
I will always remember Holly as a wonderful compassionate happy person.. A joy to be around.. She will be missed by everyone who knew her..
Kristen Woods
March 27, 2016
We love our neighbor and friend Holly. We will miss her incredible smile and wonderful laugh. Many Thank you. We love Holly and will miss her incredible smile and wonderful laugh. Hugs and prayers for her family.
Diane Keating
March 26, 2016
Holly was such a pleasure to see at the shelter.. I will miss her...my prayers to her family..RIP Holly
March 26, 2016
My prayers and hugs go out to everyone that knew Holly, even if (like me) it was a virtual/online friendship as a "teal sister." Heaven has gained an angel; and a witty, fun-loving one at that! My heart goes out to all of you. Barbara
Brent Rumph
March 26, 2016
"Holly's legacy of love and compassion is something I think we all aspire for".
"Our deepest sympathy and thoughts go to her family and friends in this difficult time".
Jennifer D'Hondt
March 25, 2016
Love and hugs.
Julius Csaky
March 25, 2016
My sincerest condolences to you and your family during these trying times. May she rest in peace in the Lord's arms.
Carolyn Valdez
March 25, 2016
Holly, I am very very sorry about your Mom. I walk dogs at the Arizona Animal Welfare League and have seen your name many times on the Facebook pages for Maricopa County Animal Care and Control as well as FASA. I have seen your mom at AAWL when I volunteer and did not know she was your mom. I will be praying for you and your family this Easter weekend. She was very young.
Casey Kelley
March 25, 2016
Aawl lost an angel. Her dedication to helping animals in need was probably the best thing she has done in her life, such kindness and compassion will surely win her a rightful seat in Heaven.
Carol Buckingham
March 25, 2016
Holly was really a "special" person-strong, interesting and a very good "listener". She is "missed"!!
Robinson Family
March 25, 2016
Sending love and warmth to you during this difficult time.
Ryan Osborne
March 25, 2016
❤
Rhona Melsky
March 25, 2016
So very sorry for the passing of your beloved mother and wife. PLease know I am thinking of you DeeDee and family at this time. You have my deepest sympathies.
March 24, 2016
A beautiful light that will continue to shine through those who love her. ~ Joseph Frasciello
Kim Mason
March 24, 2016
Love and strength to the Purcell family and friends!
Jessica Unger
March 24, 2016
Holly was one of the first volunteers I met when I started working for The Arizona Animal Welfare League. She was always a breathe of fresh air and never without a smile. Her warm spirit and compassion for animals was contagious. Holly was the type of person that always made your day better, just by being herself. It was a great pleasure to get to know her, she was a beautiful person inside and out. Sending love to her family during this impossible time, you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Kate Aguire
March 24, 2016
Holly was an incredibly positive and brightening presence at the animal shelter. You'd never know the fight she was in. She is dearly missed.
Deanna Hundrieser
March 24, 2016
Rest in peace. ♡
Lindsay Greenman
March 24, 2016
I went to elementary school with Dee Dee and remember our slumber parties and other activities with Holly. She was so beautiful and such a cool mom. My prayers are with my childhood friend and her family. Xoxo
Nancy Fish
March 24, 2016
I knew Holly through Team Inspire. She was a fun, upbeat contributor and I will miss her. My condolences to her family and friends.
Gloria Schuler
March 24, 2016
Holly and I met because of ovarian cancer. Holly was a busy four year survivor of ovarian cancer, and I was a year or so behind her in my cancer journey Holly was working so hard to conquer the cancer beast and she was so eager to encourage others, share her knowledge, and her spread her message of hope and love.
Holly was one of a kind! Not only was she kind, she was active, productive, and full of life and love for her family,friends,and animals. Hiking was her passion! One day soon, I will make it to Holly Hill and I will feel her presence.
Beautiful inside and out, Holly's smile was pure sunshine and and her spirit and soul will live in my heart forever. One day we will meet at Heaven's gates and there will be pure joy! Eternal Memory, Blessed Repose dear Holly.
Deepest Sympathy to Bill, DeeDee and Wesley during this time of extreme sadness.
March 23, 2016
Today is National Puppy Day - My thoughts immediately went to Holly and all the love, care and attention she gave to so many four legged friends. In much the same way as she did to the two legged ones like us!
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope.
Bill, you and your loved ones are in our thoughts and prayers today and always.
~ David & Helen George
Nancy Blum
March 23, 2016
I only knew Holly from Inspire as "don'tworrybehappy" and always felt better after hearing what she had to say on a subject. Her sense of humor was always appreciated. May your family be able to eventually think of her in happy memories and smiles.
Jaann Oliver
March 23, 2016
Holly will be missed but not forgotten as long as we love her. I pray for strength and peace for your family. This is a hard struggle fighting the monster everyday. I know she is free now.
Sandra Carlson
March 23, 2016
I met Holly at AAWL and was immediately aware of what a kind and generous soul she was. Her dedication and passion for animals was inspiring and having met DeeDee I know Holly must have been an amazing mother. I feel lucky to have known her and the family. May her memory live on.
Suzan Williams
March 23, 2016
Holly has been a well loved member of Inspire. She will truly be missed by those of us relying on her understanding and loving posts. Sympathy and prayers for her family.
Denise Archuleta
March 23, 2016
She brought much joy to our solemn discussion group. I will miss her. My prayers to her dear family. May she rest in peace.
Melissa VanPopering
March 23, 2016
My prayers our with your family at this difficult time. I only had the pleasure of meeting Holly once at Sharon's anniversary party. I felt I knew her personally through my sister she was always asking Sharon how I was even though she was going through so much herself. She will truly be missed.
March 23, 2016
To the Family of "Dontworrybehappy" ,
Sorry for your loss. We will miss Holly's contributions to Inspire, a Forum for Ovarian Cancer Warriors.
Sharon Shimek
March 23, 2016
I feel so blessed to have known Holly. She was such a wonderful person who was an inspiration to anyone who crossed her path. Even the last time I saw her, she was asking how I WAS.. That was how Holly was, always putting others before her self.
Through my own battle with cancer, Holly was so supportive in so many ways, and passed on her knowledge in nutrition and remedies to the side effects of my meds.
It broke my heart to get the call from Holly telling me that she herself also had Cancer. We decided that we would stick together & lean on each other regardless of the outcome, and I am so saddened that this horrible disease took one of my Best Friends away from me.
I will miss the "quick" calls that turned into an hour of us making each other laugh, and visiting her home to chat, and realizing that so much time had slipped away. I go to text her, and am hit with reality that she wont be on the other end to reply.
I know she is healed now, and in a much better place. But she will be missed by many who now have that loss of a wonderful friend, wife & Mother.
Bill and DeeDee, I know your hearts are broken and Your Loss is overwhelming, but please know that I am praying for you everyday, and ask God to give you peace.
♥♥♥I LOVE YOU & MISS YOU HOLLY ♥♥♥
Michele Soto
March 22, 2016
Holly was a true spirit that lived courageously. I'll always picture Holly with a big smile and dogs surrounding her. My prayers go out to all of Holly's family. I know Holly now has wings and she is surrounded by fur animals with wings while they watch over Dee Dee and her husband.
Paul Tallman
March 22, 2016
Thoughts and prayers to Dee Dee and her family.
Dianne ShookPhoenix
March 22, 2016
Bill and DeeDee, I'm so sorry for your loss . Holly was such a kind, sweet lady! Each time I needed my car towed, Holly and I visited on the phone . I will miss her dearly!!
holly purcell
March 22, 2016
Holly was a great person. we spent time at the race track watching horses, she ran a great garage sale. She loved those dogs. Holly was a great example of how someone should conduct themselves.
Fernando Quesada
March 22, 2016
I am deeply sorry for your loss, Holly was a true fighter, and a person that will be missed.
Rebecca Schneider
March 22, 2016
There are just some people in this world that are truly filled with pure love and they spread it wherever they go. Holly was this kind of person and we are all so lucky to have known her. My heart goes out to her family.
Christine
March 22, 2016
Holly's love for family and all creatures will remain in my heart. Very grateful that I had the chance to know her on this earth. May her memory be a blessing. <3
March 22, 2016
What a beautiful person she was, always so happy and cheerful...she will be missed but someday we will all be together again....Linda J Padilla
Laurel Lynn Becht
March 22, 2016
Holly you gave more to this world than most people give in a lifetime. Your love if family and your love of animals spoke volumes to the kind of person you were and will continue to be in spirit. Although I did not have the pleasure of meeting you until recently through Facebook I feel I knew you through your wonderful daughter and my amazing friend DeeDee. She is just as beautiful a person and I'm proud and honored to call her a friend and thank you for leaving a wonderful impression on so many people and so many animals.
Adam Stuart
March 22, 2016
Holly had many special qualities that will live on fondly in my memory until I leave this earth. I was blessed to be in her home many times, enjoying coffee and great home cooked food, and always great discussions. And her laugh was often the highlight of those occasions. Bill and DeeDee, I'm sorry for your loss and hope your hearts mend as you find new ways to honor Her memory. Love you both.
Cathy McCann
March 22, 2016
What a beautiful soul! It was always such a gift to be able to talk with her. I know she has joined many of our good friends in heaven. Until we meet again Holly, you are so loved!
amy perez
March 22, 2016
There are no words to express how sorry I am for your loss. I can only express that in the short time I knew Holly, she brought such sunshine to my life. I met her through the chemo lab and she was quick with a hug and a smile. And she gave me amazing advice. I will always love her and be grateful for her fighting spirit and her friendship. I made a piece of art for her that I hope brought her joy throughout her journey. God has gained a beautiful lady!
Erica Padilla
March 22, 2016
Such a beautiful person and I am so greatful to have known Holly. She will live in our hearts forever. I am so sorry for your loss.
Valerie McMullen
March 22, 2016
Holly was truly a bright light to anyone who met her including all the animals that crossed her path. I will treasure all the wonderful conversations I had with her while volunteering at AAWL. She was supportive, encouraging and a true warrior. Thank you for gracing us with your beauty and spirit. May you rest easy now. All my love and prayers to Bill, DeeDee and Wesley.
Bo Martin
March 22, 2016
Holly - you touched so many lives. Anyone who has ever met you has been blessed for life. You left a special mark on my heart. I will cherish all of our laughs, talks and tears. I will miss you terribly my sweet, sweet friend. Forever in my heart, my soul and always, always my HERO!!! Bill & DeeDee, may you find peace and always remember the good - it will help you get to a better place. My love to you both and especially to Holly. Bo
Kimberly Leske
March 22, 2016
Such fond memories of Dee Dee's mom, aka Holly. Growing up friends with Dee Dee for almost as long as I can remember, Holly had an ever-present glow always lighting the room with her smile. The world is a little dimmer with her gone. The heartbreak I feel for Dee Dee and Bill... May her memory live on forever. My most sincere condolences.
Pam Hundrieser
March 22, 2016
This world lost an amazing woman - loving, compassionate and inspiring. My thoughts and prayers are with your beautiful family, two legged and four. I know you will always be with them.
Todd Shimek
March 22, 2016
Bill and DeeDee,
With a heavy heart, I want to say I am so sorry for your loss!
Catherine, Harry & Ruby
March 22, 2016
We lost a Teal Warrier way too young and way too fast. Holly will continue to be an inspiration to me and a driving force in my life. Dang, I loved that stubborn woman. Bill and Dee Dee you are in my heart.
Ashsuire Forrest
March 22, 2016
Holly was one of the first people I met when I started volunteering at AAWL. She was always smiling and willing to help out a newbie. I especially remember the little terrier her & Bill helped to save right off the freeway. I'm honored to have known her and send my love and condolences to her family. <3 Ashsuire
Stephanie Linder
March 22, 2016
I am so very sorry for your loss. Everyone lost a very special soul. Words escape me, but the tears are flowing for her family.
Danielle
March 22, 2016
Holly left a lasting impression on this community. Even having never met her I am deeply moved by her passing. Love to DeeDee, Wesley, Bill and the rest of the family.
Renee Trent
March 22, 2016
Holly touched my heart and soul from the first day we met during her chemo treatments. She uplifted my spirit and was so positive !!! I will miss you Holly !! Rest in peace angel !
Tina Lopez
March 22, 2016
I had the distinct pleasure of meeting Holly and her husband Bill when I was the Volunteer Director at Arizona Animal Welfare League. I oriented hundreds of volunteers at this job but Holly and Bill always stood out. They along with their daughter, Dee Dee were amazing volunteers and beyond that Facebook Friends. Holly always had something positive and uplifting to say to me on my posts and I used their towing company many times for my towing needs. I will sincerely miss Holly and I cannot believe she is gone. RIP Holly, you were an amazing woman!
Machelle Porto
March 22, 2016
What a beautiful, giving family . THE family who always served others . No better legacy. My thoughts and prayers are with you . ❤
Jane Miller
March 22, 2016
We are so sorry for your families loss of such an amazing woman. May God be with you all to comfort you in this time. Please let us know if you need anything. Love and prayers from The Miller's Anthony, Sean, and Jane
Karin Lathin
March 22, 2016
Holly had the most amazing talent of being able to spread happiness and always being able to make people feel important. When I first met her I was having a difficult time adjusting to living in Phoenix and missed my friends back home fiercely. But any time I would run into her at AAWL she would cheer me up and make my day a little brighter just by being herself and spreading her positive energy. The fact that she took that time with me meant so much. We never had the opportunity to become close friends, but she will always be in my heart because she helped make Phoenix my home.
She was such a remarkable person and truly an inspiration in how we should all live our lives.
carina Barrera
March 22, 2016
I miss you Holly! You will always be carried in my heart. And treasured memories time spent together close to mind never will I forget. You mean't so much to me, and you blessed my life, I am very grateful that we had what time we had. Love you sweet friend. Love Carina....and Tony, he also adored you.
Ashley
March 22, 2016
Holly you are going to be missed so much, that smile that could light a room, a laugh that was so contagious, your love for animals! Rip beautiful angel
Showing 1 - 73 of 73 results
6450 West Northern Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301
Make a Donation
in Holly Purcell's name
How to support Holly's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Holly Purcell's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
