Eddie Jean Purtle

Eddie Jean Purtle, 89, went to heaven Sunday morning, January 28, 2018. She was born October 14, 1928 to Ed and Grace Purtle. She was a graduate of North Little Rock High School, class of 1947. She attended Memphis Academy of Arts where she earned her degree in Art. Her degree carried her to Denver, Colorado where she spent most of her adult life. Eddie Jean was an amazing Fashion Illustrator, designing ads for department stores: Denver Dry Goods, May D&F and Joslins. She earned numerous awards for her designs and mentored countless young designers to improve their technique. Her passion for art drew her to the Colorado Mountains, painting beautiful landscapes. She also became an avid snow skier. She was a longstanding member of Riverside Baptist Church in Denver, and loved to sing in the choir. Eddie Jean was also a member of Graves Memorial Church in North Little Rock and she loved the Lord. As a single adult she always said she was "One of God's Unclaimed Blessings." She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Roy Purtle and her cherished cat, "McGreggor". She is survived by her sister-in-law, Emma Jean Purtle; three nieces, Billie Jean Sargent (Sheldon), Diane Milligan (Jake) and Kay Langston (Jack); her longtime friends, Cogene Simard of Bluff Dale, Texas, Frances Mickleberry of Memphis, Tennessee, Marie Zimmerman and Brenda Kristi, both of Lakewood, Colorado, and a host of great-nieces and nephews and wonderful friends. Eddie Jean lived a full rich and rewarding life. With a smile she greeted you with "Things are looking up!" A visitation will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, February 6, 2018 followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m., at Graves Memorial Baptist Church, 4617 Oak Grove Road, North Little Rock. A private burial will be held at a later date. Arrangements by Smith – North Little Rock Funeral Home. Online obituary at www.SmithFamilyCares.com.