Gurtha Mae Edwards, of Rockford departed this earthly life January 10, 2025. She was born August 9, 1939 in Camden, Arkansas the daughter Buck and Esther Purifoy. Gurtha lived in Rockford 67 years coming from Bluff City. She married Homer Edwards, November 8, 1980,          he preceded her in death. Gurtha was employed  as a Team Lead Direct Service Provider by Milestone 21 years before retiring. She was a member of Faith Temple Church, serving as on the Usher Board.  Gurtha attended Prescott High School.

Gurtha leaves to cherish many loving memories, her two sons, Jerel Gulley and Christopher Gulley; five daughters, Linda Gulley,  Brenda Lyon, Marketa Tomlinson, Christine Gulley and Jeraldine Gulley ; 22 grandchildren; a host of great and great great grandchildren;  sister, Minnie Purifoy and brother R.J. Purifoy; a host of niece, nephews cousins other relatives and friends. She was predeceased by her husband; parents; son, Henry Gulley-Edwards;  three daughters, Gurtha Lene Young, Sandy Williams and Marilyn Jones; four brothers, R.W.  "Jack" Purifoy, W.R Purifoy, Shelton and Jerry Purifoy; sisters, Charlie Mae and Minnie P. Purifoy.

Services will be held 11:00 am. Friday, January 24, 2025 at Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home Inc. 200 N. Johnston Ave. Burial in Cedar Bluff Cemetery. Visitation will be held 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.