Dennis Purdy

Dennis "Denny" Purdy, 72 of Beverly, passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 27, 2025. We are sad to announce the passing of a beloved, devoted, proud father of three daughters: Melissa, Crystal and Jamie Purdy. Loving Grampy to Austin, Shayne, Jordan, Nirvana and Jeremiah, and affectionately known as "Uncle Denny" to many, has taken his final trip, although this time- not to Vegas, but to somewhere with better odds and no closing time, arriving in the front room.
Dennis was born in Gloucester and was a long-term resident of Salem and Beverly. Son of and predeceased by beloved mother Frances (Powers) Purdy and Father: James Everton Purdy. A big man with a big heart, Dennis lived life with dedication, love, and an undeniable work ethic.
Dennis shared 30 years of marriage with his former wife, Cindy, who predeceased him. Although she passed before him, Dennis carried and honored her memory every day. During their time together, they raised their daughters, who will forever cherish his laughter, guidance, and unconditional love. In addition to his girls, he leaves behind his sister, Glady, and her husband Kevin of Salem, along with a handful of adoring nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by a brother James "Jimmy".
Dennis loved Boston sports, the horse races, dining at his favorite restaurants such as Capone's, Dube's and his forever favorite- The Hilltop Steakhouse and many trips to the casinos for a try at some luck on the poker tables. Dennis loved music, The Beach Boys, and he never missed a chance to take his daughters and grandkids to see his favorite band, Wildfire, play live just for the memories. In his 30s, he spent time being an umpire, which landed him a few photos published in the paper.
Dennis spent his professional career as a senior dispatcher and thrived on every aspect of the job. For over 25 years he was a dedicated friend and employee to Dani and Andrew Eldaye, owners of Desert Coach; a nationwide airline ground crew transportation company; where he led strongly and supported his colleagues.
Dennis had a way of making ordinary moments matter for his three girls. He created lasting memories early on for them during early Saturday mornings at the racetrack - feeding the horses before the races. Those mornings just weren't about the track- they were core memories he gave to his girls to last forever. He loved every moment of being a grandfather and there was no limit to what he would make happen for his grandkids.
He leaves behind an incredible work family, and many lifelong friends who will miss him deeply. As Elton John sings, "Don't let the sun go down on me." Though the sun has set on his earthly days, his love will forever linger- shining through with every act love and every lesson he gave. Somewhere up there, Dennis is smiling- maybe making a friendly bet, or watching the boats forever pass through the harbor. Our own personal "Rocket Man"- who raised us to "keep going even five days a week" has taken to a new journey among the stars where we know he is "standing better than he ever did before."
Visiting Hours at the Campbell Funeral Home, 525 Cabot Street, Beverly, on Tuesday, November 4th from 4pm to 7pm. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Information, directions, condolences at www.campbellfuneral.com