Illinois General Assembly - Full Text of HR0060

HR0060 LRB104 09590 ECR 19653 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives are saddened to learn of the death of Bertha Purnell, who passed away on January 18, 2025; and

WHEREAS, Bertha Purnell worked as a nurse; she was a chapter coordinator for Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice (CSSJ) and served on the boards of Nature 120 and the Community Board of the Axon Housing Community; she poured her passion into serving not only those closest to her but also the unhoused, the incarcerated, and other marginalized individuals; and

WHEREAS, Bertha Purnell was a tireless advocate for reducing gun violence; after the shooting and murder of her son Maurice, she founded an organization, Mothers OnA Mission28, to provide resources and support to families affected by gun violence; the organization has expanded, and its mission has developed; the group works to empower at-risk communities and transform lives through holistic initiatives and remains deeply committed to creating lasting positive change in the communities it serves; and

WHEREAS, Bertha Purnell was a caretaker, a leader, and a source of light, joy, and strength; her compassion knew no boundaries, and her dedication to uplifting others left an indelible mark on everyone she touched; and

WHEREAS, Bertha Purnell was a mother, a grandmother, a sister, an aunt, and a friend to many; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of Bertha Purnell and extend our sincere condolences to her family, friends, and all who knew and loved her; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Bertha Purnell as an expression of our deepest sympathy.