Noma Burnett Purgar, Johnson City, TN., suddenly passed away early in the evening of Tuesday March 24 of 2015. She was born in Pensacola on February 15, 1945. After graduating from Pensacola Technical High School, she moved to Miami, Fl and joined Eastern Airlines. She flew as a senior flight attendant for Eastern from 1965 until 1991. In recent years she enjoyed spending time at her home in Johnson City, TN, her cabin in Fleetwood, NC, and her beloved condo in Kure Beach, NC.
She is survived by her husband of 43 years Capt. John F. Purgar, her daughter Page Purgar, son-in-law Dr. Steve McDonald, granddaughter Marleigh Purgar-McDonald; as well as nephew Dr. David Summerlin (Mary Jo); great nieces Marsha Vallo (Gil) and Sarah Summerlin; great nephews Chad and Caleb Sumerlin and great-great niece Selena Vallo.
Noma was a generous soul who throughout her life donated to numerous charitable organizations and adopted families in need wherever she went. Everyone whose lives were touched by her were better for it. A private memorial will be held in Kure Beach, NC. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to either the Shriner's Hospitals for Children or St. Jude's Children's Hospital.
04/06/2015
Roseann Pulaski
Dear John, Page, Steve and Marleigh,
My heart aches for you with the loss of dear Noma.
The human heart can endure many losses. But when we lose someone we love it requires time, love and patient understanding.
I wish you all of these during your heart's recovery.
04/04/2015
AnnNita McDonald
There was only one Noma ....unique,loyal, generous and personality plus. I count my friendship with the Purgars among my many blessings. Oh ...how she will be missed!
04/01/2015
bobby della brown
we were shocked to hear of John's tragic loss. we have enjoyed getting to know John as he comes to breakfast with the club of men that meet every wednesday. all of us would like to express our condolences and sincere love all of us have for John. wish there was something we could do. don't know how to get in touch with John but know the club is very touched by his loss and know the close relationship he and his wife shared.
We have known Noma and John for years through our love of Page and family. The times we spent together were full of fun and laughter. Noma was a delightful, generous woman who brought life to every occasion. John and I are so sorry for your loss and send much love to Page, John, Steve and Marleigh.
I feel lucky that I had the chance to know Noma.
For many years, during and after college, Noma and
John were like adoptive parents for me. I think I
spent every Thanksgiving with The Purgars for
maybe 10 years! Noma was always kind, interested,
and generous. She loved to laugh, and she will be
deeply missed.
03/30/2015
Terry and Bill Arbour
We are sending heartfelt thoughts and prayers
during this very difficult time. The loss of a
wonderful mother like yours is so painful.
Please know how much we care.
Love and hugs,
Terry and Bill
03/29/2015
w.t.price, (bill)
john purgar, surprised & saddened to see your name surfaced in the Johnson city press, I had no idea you had roots in this area, my thoughts & prayers go out to your familt, Bill Price. wtprice@embarqmail.com
03/29/2015
Natasha Watkinson (Rankow)
I remember how Noma always opened up her home for
friends. She loved to entertain and made us feel welcome and
taken care of, even as teenagers, when I am sure we were far
from pleasant company. She fought for what she believed in
and was generous to those in need. It had been many years
since I had seen her but, as one of Page's oldest friends,
Noma is part of my childhood memories and I am so sorry for
the loss to her family. You are all in my thoughts.
03/29/2015
Aaron Michael Gordon
Page, I'm so sorry for your loss. All my love to you and your
family.
