Linda Thornhill

Linda Purter-Thornhill of the Hill District passed away on September 5, 2020 after a long battle with COPD. Born on March 12, 1952 she was the daughter of the late Corene Geeter and London Purter also proceeding her in death was her husband Roudolph Thornhill Jr., brother Charles Purter (wife Betty Purter), sisters Mary, Moran, and Edith Wright (Husband Benjamin Wright).

Linda was educated in the Pittsburgh Public School system and graduated from Schenley Highschool. She also attended the University of Pittsburgh where she majored in Psychology. Her education at the University of Pittsburgh would open up numerous opportunities throughout her lifetime and send her on a mission for social justice in our communities.Linda was an asset because she selflessly fought against racial discrimination and poverty. She worked for organizations such as: Allegheny Family Network,Mental Health America, Pennsylvania Air Force Base, University of Pittsburgh, the Allegheny County Jail and Family resources. She was also an active member of the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) facilitating support groups for numerous families in the East End area. Her support groups focused on mental health awareness, housing, clothing assistance, and various social service needs.

Never idle with time, Linda always found opportunites to obtain education and serve mankind. Although her community service speaks volumes, her true love was her family. She enjoyed having family diners and hosting parties. It was not uncommon for the Thornhill household to have the grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews running around and having fun. The love she had for her family was indescribable. 

Linda leaves to cherish her memory her daughters,Candice and Angela Purter; son, Rudolph Thornhill 111; grandchildren London, Derek, Nicholas, Daya Alena, and Jayla along with great grandchildren: Donte, Ares, Harmony, Paris, Kimberlie, and Elias. Linda was survived by 3 sibling Clarice Kostrzema (Husband Percy Trawillian), and 6 Sister-n-Laws, 1 brother-n-law, best friends Dr. Dudley, Linda Robinson, Ariella Carter and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.  

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