Elaine (Purdy) Paulsen

Elaine Paulsen passed away peacefully Saturday, October 2, 2021, at The Gardens of Hendersonville assisted living facility in Hendersonville, NC, surrounded by loved ones. Elaine was born April 7, 1929, in Fillmore, to Reed and Mary Leet Purdy. On September 14, 1946, she married Donald Paulsen who predeceased her in 2003.

Elaine was a loving and devoted wife, mother, and friend. For many years she was employed by the Market Basket, retiring in the early 1970’s. Elaine spent much of her life caring for others, especially her husband and grandchildren. She enjoyed gardening, crafting, and spending time with her family. She was affectionately referred to as The Great Elaine by many in the family.

Why the “Great Elaine”? She was an amazing wife, mother, and grandmother. She always made sure her loved ones had what was needed, even if she went without. She worked hard to keep the family going. She had a full-time job, but that didn’t stop her from having supper on the table every night, laundry always done, and a clean home. She never sat idle, she would always make herself useful tending to her husband, family, grandchildren, and friends. She was the glue that held it all together and she did it will love and kindness. Her heart was pure! She saw people for who they were and accepted them, there was never any judgment. She was not one to gossip, yet people were drawn to her due to her kind soul. Great Elaine would not let you leave her without a hug or a kiss or an empty stomach! She was known for making yummy meals and desserts from homemade chicken noodle soup to molasses cookies. The family home was constantly filled with aromas of love. The “Great Elaine” will not be replicated. She truly was one of a kind!

Elaine is survived by her children, Marilyn (Les) Voss of North Port, FL, Shirley Talbott of Clarksville, TN, Donald (Leslie) Paulsen of Castile and Ron (Mary) Paulsen of Fillmore, 15 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, 5 great great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by a son-in-law, Stephen Talbott, her sisters Betty Kenyon and Dorothy Walton, two brothers, Donald Purdy and Albert Purdy, and a great-granddaughter.

A private service will take place at a later date. Burial will be in Bates Cemetery, Centerville.

Memorials, if desired, may be made to Sherrill Love 438 W Dermid Ave. Hendersonville, NC 28792. These funds will be used to reward Elaine's dedicated care givers at The Gardens of Hendersonville. They grew very attached to Elaine and stayed with her throughout the pandemic working long hours often being short staffed. Here are some words from the staff about “Great Elaine”, “Our lives go on without you, but nothing is the same, especially when someone speaks your name. You did so many kind and true things! Your heart was pure, loving, and amazing! You will walk with us forever!” The “Great Elaine” until the very end!

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