Vanessa Rae Puryear, age 63, of Cassville, Missouri.
Vanessa Rae Puryear, age 63, of Cassville, Missouri passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and friends on May 2, 2025, at Northwest Medical Center in Springdale, Arkansas.
She was born on July 28, 1961, in Adrian, Michigan to Travis and Katherine (Barnett) Hornsby. On a joyous Christmas Day in 2002, in Las Vegas, Nevada Vanessa was united in marriage to Danny Puryear. Their marriage was filled with shared joy until Danny’s passing on May 13, 2016. Also preceding her in death are her father and brother-in-law, Steve Bailey.
Vanessa is survived by her mother, Katherine of Adrian, Michigan; boyfriend, David Gentry, of Cassville, Missouri; one son, Jeremy Cotton and his wife, Machele of Seligman, Missouri; one daughter, Kathleen Russell, and her husband, Simon of Seligman, Missouri; one brother, William Hornsby and his wife, Margie, of Adrian, Michigan; three sisters, Peggy Timmerman of Adrian, Michigan, Teresa Franklin and her husband, Harvey, of Conway, South Carolina, and Lorie Bailey also of Adrian, Michigan; four grandchildren, Alissa, Andrew, Taytum, Titus, and the eagerly expected Tripp and very close friend, Jeannie Williams.
She grew up in Adrian, Michigan and graduated from Adrian High School in 1979. Vanessa was a dedicated employee at Harris Baking in Rogers, Arkansas, where she retired after 24 years. She loved spending time with her kids and grandkids, cherishing every moment and creating lasting memories. Vanessa's faithful dog, Oreo, also held a special place in her heart. She was an enthusiast of the casinos' vibrant atmosphere; she enjoyed the thrill of the game. Vanessa always looked forward to her trips to Michigan to reconnect with family and friends. Those who knew Vanessa will remember her as a loving and generous person, always ready to lend a helping hand or offer a word of encouragement.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Cremation arrangements are under direction of Fohn Funeral Home in Cassville.
Visit www.fohnfuneralhome.com for online obituaries, guestbook and private condolences.
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