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BORN

1938

DIED

2017

Suzanna Purrington Obituary

Purrington, Suzanna Juliet Passed away on November 28, 2016, after a short illness. She was 78. Sue spent her entire life in social and political activism. She was in on the founding of the Congress of Racial Equality here in Chicago, and was a member of the Emergency Relief Committee for Fayette Co., Tennessee during the "freedom rider" years in the early 1960s. Sue was Executive Director of the Chicago chapter of the National Organization for Women, and helped guide several political campaigns, including that of Carol Moseley Braun, who she helped persuade to run for the Senate in 1992. Sue was given the Debs-Thomas-Harrington award by the Democratic Socialists of America in the same year. She was also former head of the Independent Voters of Illinois. Sue was a resident of Hyde Park for over 50 years, and in the latter part of her career she worked for south Chicago (5th ward) alderman Leslie Hairston. Sue was born in Athens, Ohio on July 28, 1938, the daughter of The Reverend and Mrs. Robert Purrington. She is survived by sister and brother, Jane Brewster Purrington and Robert Daniel Purrington, as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. Please give to your favorite charity in Sue's memory. There will be a memorial gathering on the lakefront in the spring.

Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Jan. 20, 2017.
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4 Entries

I am so sorry for your great loss. May the God who "binds up the brokenhearted" and "comforts all who mourn," sustain your family during this challenging time. Isaiah 61:1, 2

January 28, 2017

May fond memories and the passing of time help ease the pain in your hearts. As you reflect on Suzanna's legacy may it brighten your spirit for many years to come. You're in our prayers (1 Thess. 5:17)

Sincere condolences,
N.S.

January 20, 2017

I served with Sue on the Illinois Pro-Choice Alliance Board in the early 90s. Whenever I think of my experience on the board, I think of her face and the influence she had on us/me - a young activist at the time. My condolences to the family.

Laura Sabransky

January 20, 2017

Sorry to see this. She was truly an icon and will be missed by all she helped and mentored. I first met her in the late 70's and was immediately impressed with her dedication and perseverance. May she rest in peace.

Sue Roberts-Kurpis

January 20, 2017

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