Obituaries

Rev. Ronald W. Purser, 78, of Elgin, IL, passed away on February 24, 2025, surrounded by loved ones, at the Hospice of Ascension Alexian Brothers in Elk Grove. He was born on October 19, 1946 in Boardman, Ohio to Joseph and Nell Purser. He graduated from Youngstown State University in 1969 and Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in 1972. Ron served as a minister at First United Methodist Church in LaGrange, Faith United Methodist Church in Elgin, Good Shepherd United Methodist Church in Bartlett, and Barrington United Methodist Church. He retired after serving for 13 years as the pastor of Little Home Church by the Wayside UCC in Wayne, IL. Ron loved leading Bible study and loved teaching. He taught history, philosophy, and ethics at Elgin Community College and other nearby colleges. As a pastor and a professor, he impacted the lives of literally countless people. He was always willing to help anyone in need. He will be remembered for his kindness, intellect, and endless generosity.

He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Margaret Purser; his brother and sister-in-law, Joe and Pat Purser; six children, Aaron Purser, Colin Purser, Gretchen Purser, Douglas Sands, Geoffrey Sands, and Christine Hjorth; and thirteen grandchildren, Jacob, Sammie, Emily, Rylan, Ashlyn, Jackson, Joey, Jonathan, Gracie, Aria, Luke, Everett and Zinnia. Ron adored dogs and was never without a canine companion. He leaves behind his beloved Maltipoo, Daisy.

A celebration of Ron’s life will be held from 2pm-3pm on Monday, March 3 at­ Little Home Church by the Wayside UCC (32W128 Army Trail Rd, Wayne, IL). A reception/visitation will follow from 3-4:30pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ron’s memory to Little Home Church by the Wayside.

For further information call Yurs Funeral Home St. Charles 630-584-0060

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