Evangeline Ann Purkes, 84, of Taylorville, IL, passed away January 29, 2026, at Decatur Memorial Hospital.

She was born on December 8, 1941, to John and Violet (Pierce) Boyd in Hillsboro, Illinois. She married Roy Wayne Purkes and he preceded her in death in 2022. Evangeline worked at Walmart for 29 years in various departments throughout the store. Evangeline was a “Nana” to everyone. She enjoyed yard work and gardening as well as crafting and quilting. Nana will be remembered for her signature pancakes, her sassiness, wit, and her kind and generous soul.

She is survived by her children: Bryan (Robin) Bland of Missouri, Francene Hague of Taylorville, and Carol Ann (Brandon) Johnson of Decatur; siblings: Belle Sims of Taylorville, and John (Vickie) Boyd of Hillsboro; grandchildren: Brandon, Rachel, Danielle, Mystique, Savannah, Ryan, Richard, Hayley and Nikki; great-grandchildren: Brylyn, Jazlynn, Makilynn, Cooper, Gwendolyn, Makayla, Natalia, Kyle, David, and Sydney; close friends: Karen Mills and Sandy Warren as well as her faithful companion: Copper. She is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews.

Evangeline is preceeded in death by her parents, husband: Roy Wayne Purkes, Siblings: Cliff Boyd, Laura Davis, and Bob Blankenship. Children: Cindy Katzmarek, Randy Maroon, Roy Purkes, Charles Purkes, and Randy Lee Purkes.

Per Evangeline’s wishes, cremations rites are to be accorded with a Celebration of Life at a later date.