1955-2026
Nellie Bronwen Purdue, 71, of Hutchinson, died July 30, 2026, at her home. She was born June 28, 1955, in Matamata, New Zealand, to Harry and Hazel (Hirst) Stidder.
Nellie graduated from Matamata College. She served in the Royal New Zealand Navy. While serving in the navy she met a sailor from the United States, Paul L. Purdue, whom she married. They settled in Hutchinson, where they had one son, Harry, and later divorced.
Nellie was currently employed at Walmart. She had an adventurous spirit and loved traveling. Nellie also had a soft spot in her heart for animals, especially dogs and cats, caring for many over the years.
Nellie is survived by her son, Harry, of Wichita; siblings, Margaret Coleman, Edna Munn, Harry Stidder, Reawyn Miller, Phyllis Horton, all of New Zealand; and many extended family members.
She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, David Stidder and Wendy Young.
Cremation has taken place.
Memorial service will be 3 p.m. Thursday, August 6, 2026, at Elliott Chapel. The service will be livestreamed and can be viewed by clicking the following link: click here to view the service (the stream will begin at 2:50 p.m.)
Private family inurnment will take place in Memorial Park cemetery.
Friends may sign her memorial book from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Wednesday at Elliott Mortuary.
Memorial donations may be made to Hutchinson Animal Shelter or any animal charity of the donor’s choice, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.
Service/Mass
Funeral Home in Charge
