Virginia "Rosie" (Hanks) Pursel

Virginia Rosalea “Rosie” (Hanks) Pursel, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 27, 2026. She was born on July 18, 1931, in Danville, IN, daughter and one of 7 children to Leroy and Ida (Edwards) Hanks.

As a 1949 graduate of Fishers High School, Rosie had great fun as a cheerleader during her high school years.

During her working years, Rosie was employed in various jobs. While her children were in elementary school, she worked in the Carmel Elementary School cafeteria. She continued as a bookkeeper with Ayr-Way and Lambda Chi Fraternity. Later Rosie became an administrative assistant at Cincinnati Milacron. Before retiring, her last position was with Sallie Mae.

Rosie enjoyed playing cards. She played Hand and Foot with friends and family.  She also belonged to a Euchre Club and a Pinochle Card Club.

She was a member of the Red Hat Society, which has become a global organization that encourages ladies to age playfully and enjoy lunches and teatime together. 

Rosie was blessed with the gift of hospitality as she loved to host her card clubs, and she especially enjoyed Christmas and other family events in her home. Because Rosie was known as a good cook, everyone looked forward to her delicious baked goods: pies, cookies, and particularly her carrot cake.

She also enjoyed antiquing and had a talent for bringing those forgotten pieces of furniture back to their original beauty and purpose.

 In addition to her parents, Rosie was preceded in death by her loving husband of 70 years, Edward “Ed” Leon Pursel

Survivors include her children, Judith Pursel, Jane (Rick) Warwick and Jon Pursel; 4 grandchildren, Jonathan Schatzlein, Beck Warwick, Jameson Schatzlein and Avery Shaw; 4 great grandchildren, Elliot and Arthur Schatzlein, Amelia and Eliza Shaw; and sister, Sondra Deering.

Family and friends will gather on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 11am in the White Chapel Church, of which Rosie was a longtime member and where the Funeral Service will begin at 1pm.

In memory of Rosie, donations may be made to White Chapel Church, 5155 E 116th Street, Carmel, IN 46033 or Julian Center, 2011 N. Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202.

Envelopes will be available at the service.

Bussell Family Funerals is privileged to assist the family with arrangements.

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