Madelynne K. Chandler Purdy

Madelynne K. Chandler Purdy It is with great sadness that the family of Madelynne K. Chandler Purdy, age 89, announce her passing on May 11, 2024. Madelynne was a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She lived a long and full life. Madelynne was born in Worth County, Iowa on July 12, 1934. She was primarily raised by her grandparents, William and Emilie (Christensen) Kottman, whom she loved dearly. She had a close relationship with her mother and stepfather, Esther and Harvey Gaarder, and her two stepsisters, Marge (Greg) and Myra (Raymond). As a child she went to school in Iowa Falls, Northwood, and Manly where she graduated from high school in 1952. She completed her Bachelor of Arts degree in Economic History at Iowa State University in 1957. She went on to earn a Master of Arts in History at Butler University in 1967 and a Law degree at Indiana University in Indianapolis in 1982. Madelynne was a teacher at several Indianapolis Public Schools and at Eastwood Junior High School in Washington Township. In 1980 she began working for the Indiana Department of Revenue as a special deputy prosecuting attorney and remained there until she retired in 2001. When her children were young, Madelynne was Camp Fire Girl Leader. During the 1970s, Madelynne became active in politics and served as Democrat Precinct Committeewoman, Ward Chairwoman, and was a delegate to the Indiana State Democratic Convention. She pursued many hobbies and interests including sewing, quilting, and gardening. She was an avid reader and possessed many books. Over the years, she had many pets, both cats and dogs. Madelynne had a soft spot for strays and rescues. Among her favorites were Longstreet, Daisy, Peepers, and Max. She made and kept many good friends throughout her life. Madelynne was married twice. On July 31, 1955, she married Richard E. Chandler, and he preceded her in death February 26, 1976. On February 11, 1991, Madelynne married Richard C. Purdy and he preceded her in death December 10, 1998. Madelynne cherished her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She is survived by her children, Susan Christensen, Patricia McGuire (spouse Patrick), and Richard Chandler; stepchildren, Jenene Lighty (spouse Kerry), Janette Bridgeman (spouse Mark), and Joanna Bains (spouse Navjoat); grandchildren, Christopher Wren, Siobhan McGuire (spouse Eric), and Joseph McGuire (spouse Kayla); step-grandchildren, Kayla Goodremote (spouse Chad), Kalissa Lighty-Smith (spouse Em), Kinzie Lighty, Marissa Bains and Jolene Bains; great-grandchildren, Tadhg McGuire and Eamonn McGuire; and step-great-granddaughter, Khloey Goodremote. Mom, Grandma, and Great-Grandma will be sorely missed. “If I had a flower for every time I thought of you…I could walk through my garden forever.” – Alfred Tennyson. Visitation will be Friday, May 17, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at 12 noon at Shirley Brothers Fishers-Castleton Chapel, 9900 Allisonville Road, Fishers. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice. A few of Mom’s favorites were Rosie’s Southside Animal Shelter, Gleaner’s Food Bank, the National Alliance for Mental Health, Arbor Day Foundation, Soaring Eagle Heritage Living Center, St. Joseph’s Indian School, Boy’s Town, the Democratic Party and candidates.

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Madelynne K. Chandler Purdy

July 12, 1934 - May 11, 2024